St Croix This Week March 2024

ST. CROIX THIS WEEK 53 YEARS

MAR 2024

YOUTH ART MONTH | EPHEMERAL ARCHIPELAGO AT CMCA | ANNUAL FUR BALL VI CONTEMPORARY AT CANE ROOTS ART GALLERY | 53RD ANNUAL ST. PADDY’S DAY PARADE

COVER ARTIST

CHRISTIAN VIUM

FIND IT Attractions Tours/Events Shopping Eat & Drink Local Art Watersports Beaches/Golf Getting Around Road Maps Staying Here Buying/Living Here Be Well

T H E O R I G I N A L S T. C R O I X H O O K | s o n y a l t d s t o r e . c o m 2 1 0 1 C o m p a n y S t . S T E 1 C h r i s t i a n s t e d , V I ( 3 4 0 ) 7 7 3 . 8 9 2 4 | ( 8 7 7 ) 7 6 6 . 9 2 8 4

J E W E L R Y : S O N YA L T D P H O T O G R A P H Y: T. B A N K S

N o w Av a i l a b l e a t

A m e r i c a n Ya c h t H a r b o r 6100 Red Hook Quarter #2 Suite C2-6 St Thomas, USVI 00802 340-775-0077

J E W E L R Y : S O N YA L T D P H O T O G R A P H Y: T. B A N K S

CONTENTS FEBRUARY 24 / MARCH 24

4 7 10 22 24 34 35 36 39 40 46 47 48 49 50 51 54 60 62

Whim Museum West Entrance.

IN EVERY ISSUE

59

EVENTS CALENDAR ATTRACTIONS & TOURS 36 SHOP DUTY FREE EASY SHOPPING GUIDE EAT & DRINK EASY DINING GUIDE 38 FARM STANDS LOCAL ART 39 OUR DANISH CONNECTION WATERSPORTS BEACHES 41 GOLF & TENNIS 47 GOOD TO KNOW 59 STAYING HERE EASY HOTEL GUIDE GETTING AROUND Rental Cars/Taxis/Ferry 60 ROAD MAPS BE WELL BUYING/LIVING HERE 62

FEATURES FEB Cover, World Ocean School, Schooner Denis Sullivan & MAR Cover Artist, Christian Vium YOUTH ART MONTH A Danish Legacy is Honored in a Novel Usage

By Nina York Sweet Bottom Dive Center Teddy Seymour Honored Save Whim Museum Advocacy Group’s National Trust for Historic Preservation Invite

By Dr. Michael Connors Cindy Male’s new book and retreat at The Courtyard Sea Glass Properties

COVERS

ST. CROIX THIS WEEK MANAGING EDITOR MEDIA CONSULTANT Susan S. Wall 340-773-0715 / 340-277-9642 stcroixthisweek@gmail.com e-edition – stcroixthisweek.com Metro Caribbean, LLC St. Croix This Week St. Thomas / St. John This Week St. Thomas In A Day PUBLISHER GRAPHIC DESIGNER DISTRIBUTOR

Charlotte Atkins Chelsea Sunshine Debbie Bradley

2 • Februar y / March 2024

FEBRUARY Aboard Denis Sullivan World Ocean School Staff Photo

LATEST ISSUES

IN THE USA

Welcome to St. Croix, a land of spectacular beauty, rich cultural diversity and intriguing history. The largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, with 84 square miles of rolling hillsides, pristine beaches and a tropical rainforest, St. Croix offers endless opportunities to pursue your heart’s desire and create a unique vacation experience.

Adventurers and nature lovers can spend time hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, sailing or golfing at one of our championship golf courses.

Scuba diving enthusiasts can experience five different dives in one day.

For a more relaxed approach, swim in the crystalline waters of Buck Island, the only naturally occurring underwater National Monument in the U.S. History buffs can experience St. Croix’s vibrant history through its architecture, historic landmarks, food, music and traditions. Explore the Christiansted National Historic Site, Forts Christiansvaern and Frederik or tour the Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts. Early risers can catch a picturesque sunrise at Point Udall, the easternmost point in the United States.

Teddy Seamour.

47

Dear Visitor,

Christiansted and Frederiksted, our main seaside towns, are a shopper’s nirvana with charming boutiques offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and apparel to colorful local art. Visitors enjoy a generous $1,600 duty-free shopping allowance.

Our chic hotels, resorts and cozy bed-and-breakfast inns will pamper you with warm hospitality, while our world-class restaurants tempt your taste buds with local and international menus. St. Croix’s wide array of the entertainment choices, including fairs, festivals, live concerts and gaming venues ensure that the fun never ends.

On behalf of the Department of Tourism, I hope you have an amazing vacation experience in St. Croix. Thank you for choosing the U.S. Virgin Islands.

MARCH JENNY LAWAETZ, St. Croix 2019 Analogue Negative Photo Christian Vium ©2024. No part may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

Sincerely,

Joseph Boschulte Commissioner USVI Department of Tourism

VOTED BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY ON ST. CROIX

The Virgin Islands Of The United States OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR GOVERNMENT HOUSE

1105 King Street Christiansted, St. Croix, U.S.V.I. 00820

2016 • 2017 • 2018 • 2019 • 2021 • 2022

Our Award-Winning REALTORS® are at your service!

Tel: (340) 773-1404 Fax: (340) 713-9806 Welcome to our beautiful Virgin Islands of the United States. Our islands are unique in what they each offer and our communities are filled with people who are proud of our storied history. While visiting, I encourage you to immerse yourself in our culture and to explore the unique offerings of all four Islands that make up our paradise.

St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, sits to the south of our small island chain and is renowned for its pastoral landscapes, Danish architecture and historical landmarks. With its offshore wrecks and unbelievably beautiful underwater reefs, St. Croix is also a popular destination for diving enthusiasts. Be sure to visit the historic towns of Frederiksted and Christiansted and indulge in St. Croix’s renowned art and delicious culinary scenes.

St. John is one of the smaller U.S. Virgin Islands and conservation center of the territory. It is best known for its pristine beaches and the attractions within the Virgin Islands National Park, which occupies more than half the island. The lands in the Virgin Islands National Park shelter migrant birds and the mangroves support corals and anemones. As with all the Virgin islands, you will find that St. John provides a rich mix of our culture and history.

St. Thomas is our business and shopping center and the seat of government. Charlotte Amalie is the capital town of the U.S. Virgin Islands and is one of the busiest ports of call for cruise ships in the Caribbean.

St. Thomas is among the most popular destinations in the Caribbean for sailing and yachting enthusiasts.

Water Island is the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands and rests just off the coast of St. Thomas. It is mostly residential but offers fun attractions like Honeymoon Beach and quaint accommodations. The island can be reached by ferry from the Crown Bay Marina or by other vessels.

As the Lieutenant Governor and Governor, both Treganza Roach and I wish you a warm, fun-filled stay and please accept our invitation to return often to our paradise.

Albert Bryan, Jr. Governor

Ava Gail Bourdon Broker-Owner

CeCe Reyes

Kelly Pugh

Dianne CanegataO’Reilly

Sam and Mio Mootoo

Christopher Jones

Jason Walker

Jennell Bryan

Joe and Juliet San Martin

Yvonne Toussaint

Andre Toussaint

Timothy Patrick Providence

(340) 773.1048 info@remax-stcroix.com www.remax-stcroix.com

RE/MAX St. Croix

#5 Company Street, Christiansted, VI 00820 Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated Februar y / March 2024 • 3

Events Calendar FEBRUARY 2024 / MARCH 2024

SATURDAYS, 9-12:30PM

Cruise Arrivals*

Recycling Clear #1 Plastic/Aluminum cans. The Market STX. 813-704-3335

Frederiksted Pier

SATURDAYS, 11:30AM

Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility Virgin Islands Port Authority—

FEBRUARY 2024

WED, FEB 7 MON, FEB 12 THURS, FEB 15 MON, FEB 19 TUES, FEB 20 WED, FEB 21 WED, FEB 28

MARCH 2024

MON, MAR 11 THURS, MAR 14 WED, MAR 20 MON, MAR 25 WED, MAR 27

8AM-6PM 11AM-7PM 6AM-1PM 7AM-4PM 8AM-6PM 8AM-6PM 8AM-6PM

ADVENTURE/SEAS NORWEGIAN JADE NORWEGIAN EPIC MARELLA DISCOVERY CELEBRITY APEX ADVENTURE/SEAS VISION OF THE SEAS

7AM-4PM 8AM-11PM 8AM-6PM 8AM-5PM 8AM-6PM

MARELLA DISCOVERY EVRIMA ADVENTURE/SEAS CELEBRITY SUMMIT VISION OF THE SEAS

*Cruise ship schedule was at press time. Check www.viport.com to confirm latest schedule.

Children’s Book Reading @ Undercover Books & Gifts, Gallows Bay, 340-719-1567

FIRST SATURDAYS, 9AM-NOON

Nursery Plant Sale, St. George Village Botanical Garden

FIRST SATURDAYS, 11AM-4PM FEB 3/MAR 3. Alexander Hamiltom Brunch Theater

FIRST SAURDAYS, 6:45PM WEDNESDAYS, 10AM-12:30PM

Friends in the Courtyard Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Members Free, Non, $10. 340-772-2622 WEDNESDAYS, 5-7PM Crab Races with Tito and Sue BREW STX, 340-719-6339

FEBRUARY 15 is the deadline for event considerations for the APR/MAY 2024 issue. Email event info, in the format you see here, to Dorothy Flash-Nelson at calendareventstx@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAYS, 6PM

NOTE: Event info was at press time and subject to change.

Call or check facebook/websites prior to heading out.

WEDNESDAYS, 7PM UNTIL

ONGOING

THURSDAYS, 10-11AM

Sip & Savor Mixology Class, Christiansted Book online, vifoodtours.com, 866-498-3684

Garden Zen Yoga with Shera Botanical Garden $10. 340-692-2874

THURSDAYS, 5:30-10PM

MONDAYS, 6-9PM Trivia w/Amanda @ Tap Deck Bistro 340-773-5227, tapdeckstx.com

THURSDAYS, 6PM

Karaoke w/Pablo, Hotel on the Cay Beach Bar

TUESDAYS, 6-8PM

Tuesday Trivia—Sion Farm Distillery Reserve teams, 340-690-9322.

TUESDAYS, 6-9PM

Live Music with Jahnee Redlocks Brew STX, 340-719-6339, brewstx.com

TUES & THURS, 8:30AM

Free Feral Feline TVNR Service St. Croix Animal Welfare Clinic 340-778-1650

TUESDAYS, 8-10PM

Karaoke @ Tap Deck Bistro 340-773-5227, tapdeckstx.com

THIRD TUESDAYS, 6PM

Book Club, Undercover Books Members get 10% off current book.

340-719-1567, undercoverbooksstcroix.com 4 • Februar y / March 2024

Outside Movie Night – Family Friendly Leatherback Brewery, 340-772-2337

THIRD SATURDAY, 10AM-NOON

Orchids in the Courtyard CMCA, 340-772-2622, cmcarts.com

SUNDAYS, 8-11PM

Karaoke w/DiDede, Breakers Roar Tiki Bar King Christian Hotel

SUNDAYS, 10-3PM

Live Brunch Music, Sea Terrace Restaurant Grapetree Bay Hotel &Villas. 340-249-0700

Trivia w/Corey, Hotel on the Cay Beach Bar

MON, WED, FRI, 8AM Mindful Yoga with Colleen Altona Lagoon Pavilion, 340-244-2185

MONDAYS, 7PM UNTIL

RePlasticReCycle @ Leatherback Brewing 340-208-0952, www.replasticrecycle.com

Seafood Boil Night—BREW STX NO PROBLEMO Live. 340-719-6339 Karaoke—Sion Farm Distillery 340-690-9322. sionfarmdisillery.com

THURSDAYS, 7-9PM

Bingo w/Jacky @ Tap Deck Bistro 340-773-5227, tapdeckstx.com

THURS, FRI, & SAT, 5-8PM

Live music at Sea Terrace Restaurant Grapetree Bay Hotel & Villas, 340-249-0700

FRIDAYS, 9-10:30AM

EveryBody Yoga with Deni Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts everybodyyogadeni@gmail.com

FRIDAYS, 5-8PM

Crab Race with Tito & Sue Leatherback Brewing 340-772-2337

FIRST & THIRD FRIDAYS, 6PM

NPS Moonlight Movies on the Fort Lawn G to PG-13. Christiansted. 340-514-3769

SECOND FRIDAYS, 6-8PM

NPS Bands on the Bay on the Fort Lawn Christiansted. 340-514-3769

FEBRUARY 1- THURSDAY, NOON-5PM 16 Legacy, Tien Jameson Exhibit Cane Roots Art Gallery, Company Street Marcia Jameson’s daughter, for those of you who remember her, continues. 340-718-4929, canerootsartgallery.com 3 SATURDAY, 2PM Cindy Male Presentation/Book Signing The Courtyard Juices & Fitness Center Cindy Male, an artist/educator/yogini, uses art and yoga to encourage the recognition, growth, and synthesis of creative energy for conscious living. Explore her new book Course for Correction: A Guided Journey to Find Your Creative Potential.

340-277-8651 4 SUNDAY, TIME TBA Hike/Duck Observation Southgate Nature Preserve With St. Croix Hiking Association guide, McLean Augustus. Details posted on website 1 week prior. 340-772-2073, StCroixHiking.org 4 SUNDAY, NOON-3M Alexander Hamilton Brunch Theater Tap Deck Bistro & Bar, Frederiksted Enjoy a fantastic brunch option with an incredible lecture of Hamilton's life by Jimmy Napoli, followed by a captivating play by international film actress and playwright Eva Dorrepaal!

340-773-5227, tapdeckstx.com

Events Calendar SAVE THE DATE!

St. George Village Botanical Garden Salsa, Dancing, Cuban Cuisine, Dominos and more! Benefit for Project Promise.

340-513-0446, projectpromisevi.com 11 SUNDAY 8AM Silly Sockathlon Altona Park, Gallows Bay VI Triathlon Federation Run/Bike/Run Event open to kids of all abilities, ages 5-15. Distances increase with age category. For info & to reserve a bike, call 340-513-2707.

FEB 17, 18, 19. 52nd Annual Agriculture & Food Fair.

Susan Wall 4 SUNDAY, 5:30PM Jazz Vespers St. Croix Reformed Church, La Reine An inter-faith gathering; local jazz musicians.

989-600-0492, facebook, stcroixreformed.org 8 THURSDAY, 6-9PM Dr. Simone L. Palmer Music Series Opener Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts DuPont Brass from Washington, DC. Tickets $10; $20 non-members. 340-772-2622, RSVP online, cmcarts.org/events

15 THURSDAY, 5-8PM “Art Thursday” Art Walk Downtown Christiansted Visit dozens of galleries, jewelry studios!

Shops open late! artthursdaystcroix.com 16 FRIDAY, 5PM-8PM Live Music by Mama’s Black Sheep Leatherback Brewing Company info@leatherbackbrewing.com 17, SATURDAY-MONDAY, 9AM-6PM 18, 52nd Annual Agriculture & Food Fair 19 Fairgrounds, Estate Lower Love Livestock, local produce, plants, local foods &

FEB 24-25. 51st Annual St. Croix Orchid Society Show.

Toni Lance drinks, vendors galore, and activities for the entire family. Adults, $6, Seniors, $5, children under 12, $4. 3-day passes. viagrifest.org 17- SATURDAY, TBA 29 Ephemeral Archipelago (Reframing History 1) Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Visual artist & anthropologist Christian Vium recontextualizes & challenges dominant historical stereotypes, inviting local audiences to reconsider the status of local histories & their importance, while at the same time investigating the dynamic

9-10, FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 8PM 16, ANNUAL MUSICAL 17, Caribbean Community Theater 18, Always a good one, not to be missed!

23, Sunday Matinee, 4pm. Check website 24 for name of show! cct.vi 9 FRIDAY, 9PM 2024 STX YoGa VaCa Retreat The Courtyard Juices & Fitness Center Join Cindy Male for this year’s sessions centering around 7 of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras.

Open to the public with fee; evening meditations by donation. clmale@yahoo.com for itinerary times/details. 340-277-8651 10 SATURDAY, 6AM 37th Annual Toast-To-The-Captain Race Starts & Ends in Christiansted This 8.4-mile race will commemorate Capt. Teddy Seymour who was the first black man to sail around the world solo. Entry fee: $10. The VI Road Racing Committee event. Call for more info, 340-513-2707.

10 SATURDAY, 10AM-NOON Little Artist Day Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Valentine’s Edition in the Courtyard.

340-772-2622, cmcarts.org 10 SATURDAY, 11AM “Roaring 20’s” Mardi Croix Parade Sylvie’s in LaVallee to Cane Bay Val, 817-908-3912 or Dee, 828-447-3986 10 SATURDAY, 6PM 8th Annual Havana Nights!

FEBRUARY  through MAY 2024

ANNUAL MUSICAL





Visit website for information

February 9, 10, 16, 17, 18, 23 & 24 Three Weekends • ONE Matinee

 

FRANCINES WILL



A Comedy by Mary Dattilo

March 15, 16, 17, 22, 23 & 24

A SONG FOR CORETTA



A Play by Pearl Cleage

April 26, 27 & 28



SIX DANCE LESSONS IN SIX WEEKS  A Play by Richard Alfieri

May 17, 18, 19, 24, 25 & 26



ALL DATES & SHOWS SUBJECT TO CHANGE Fridays & Saturdays 8 PM • Sunday Matinees 4 PM Box office & bar open 45 minutes before showtime #  18 Est. Orange Grove

Christiansted, St. Croix

Southwest of Golden Rock Shopping Center

For info & updates, go to www.cct.vi eileencct@gmail.com • 340-778-1983 Februar y / March 2024 • 5

Events Calendar TAKE TIME FOR THESE! stereotypes, inviting local audiences to reconsider the status of local histories & their importance, while at the same time investigating the dynamic entanglements of local & Danish histories over time. Tues-Sat, 9-4pm, cmcarts.org, 340-772-2622

2 SATURDAY, 7-11PM

ANNUAL FUR BALL Bohlke Int’l Aviation Hanger, STX Airport A most fabulous night of the year for animal lovers. Food, drinks, games, and festivities!

Mama’s Black Sheep. Benefits St. Croix Animal Welfare Center Tickets online, StCroixAWC.org

3 SUNDAY, NOON-3PM MAR 15-31. VI Contemporary Art Exhibit. “Luscious Living.”

Ziva entanglements of local & Danish histories over time. Tues-Sat, 9-4pm. cmcarts.org, 340-772-2622 18. SUNDAY, TIME TBA Hike Mt. Victory Camp to Ridge2Reef Farm St Croix Hiking Association Guide, Cathy Prince. Details posted on website 1 week prior. 340-772-2073 StCroixHiking.org 19 MONDAY, 3 Orchid Awareness Ed. Group Raffle Drawing Ag Fair Grounds, Farmer’s Building Here’s your chance to own one of 2 Gene Rotter acrylic orchid paintings (16 x 20). See images at www.orchidawarenessvi.com. Buy tickets ($20) from OAEG members or email. Benefits our commitment to disseminating orchid education. orchidawarenessvi@gmail.com, 340-514-0798 24- SAT, 9AM-5PM, SUN, 9AM-3PM 25 51st Orchid Society Show—“Orchids Galore” St. George Village Botanical Garden Local artist Toni Lance, has created a beautiful painting exclusively for the show—Epidendrum ciliare, the “Christmas Orchid.” The painting will be raffled off at the end of the show to benefit the St. Croix Orchid Society. For info, Thomas Callahan, 717-645-6526.

25 SUNDAY, 7AM Duathlon & Try-a-Du East End, Grapetree Bay This VI Triathlon Federation run/bike/run event is near Divi Carina Bay Hotel, Southshore Road. The race is a 1-mile run, followed by a 13-mile bike ride, & finish with a 3-mile run. Try-a-Du, is offered for beginner and youth athletes. For info or to reserve a bike, call 340-513-2707.

MARCH 1- FRIDAY, 9AM-4PM

16 Ephemeral Archipelago (Reframing History 1) Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Visual artist & anthropologist Christian Vium recontextualizes & challenges dominant historical 6 • Februar y / March 2024

Alexander Hamilton Brunch Theater Tap Deck Bistro & Bar, Frederiksted Enjoy a fantastic brunch option with an incredible lecture of Hamilton's life by Jimmy Napoli, followed by a captivating play by international film actress and playwright Eva Dorrepaal!

340-773-5227, tapdeckstx.com

3 SUNDAY, 5:30PM

Jazz Vespers St. Croix Reformed Church, La Reine An inter-faith gathering; local jazz musicians.

989-600-0492, facebook, stcroixreformed.org

7 THURSDAY, 6-9PM

Dr. Simone L. Palmer Music Series Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Artist TBD. Tickets $10; $20, non-members.

340-772-2622, RSVP, cmcarts.org/events

9- SATURDAY, 5-9PM OPENING

30 YOUTH ART MONTH Exhibit Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism See student art with the theme this year of “Dream in Art.” C.H.A.N.T., Customs House St, Frederiksted.

340-643-6183. See Pg 38 and Facebook, YAMUSVI

15 FRIDAY, 4-8PM

“VI Contemporary” Exhibit Cane Roots Art Gallery Bringing together the contemporary visions of VI artists Kim Sanchez, Alexis Camarena, Niarus, Tamara Michael, Joyce Hickok, Amy Gibbs, Tien Jameson, Gerville Larsen, Victoria Rivera, John Jones, Eliana Brown, Lucien Downes, Augustin Kelvin Holder, Sylvia Kahn, Chalana Brown. Tues-Fri, 12-5pm, Sat, 12-4pm. canerootsartgallery.com, 340-718-4929

15, FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY, 8PM

16, “Francine’s Will” 17, Caribbean Community Theatre 22, There’s a whole lot of scheming going on 23, and a comical twist of counter-plots after 24, the death of Francine Faraday! Sunday Matinees, 4pm. cct.vi

16 SATURDAY, 11AM

53nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade Downtown Christiansted Paint the town green! King & Company Streets. stxstpats.org

MAR 16. 53rd Annual St. Paddy’s Day Parade.

16 SATURDAY, TIME TBA

Hike Estate Adventure Trail St. Croix Hiking Association Details posted on website 1 week prior 340-772-2073 StCroixHiking.org

17 SUNDAY, 3PM-6PM

St. Paddy’s Celebration Leatherback Brewing Company Mama’s Black Sheep Live w/ St. Paddy’s fun. info@leatherbackbrewing.com

21 THURSDAY, 5-8PM

“Art Thursday” Art Walk Downtown Christiansted Visit dozens of galleries, jewelry studios, & shops open late! artthursdaystcroix.com

22- FRIDAY OPENING, TBA

31 REBIRTH Exhibit Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts A Spring celebration of fine art, fine food, & fine wines curated by Lucien Downes.

Tues-Sat, 9-4pm. 340-772-2622, cmcarts.org

24 SUNDAY, 7AM

“Island Hoppers” Run & Bike Event Sally's Fancy, Rt 62 & Rt 624 The VI Triathlon Federation invites you to hop into Spring with a 2-person relay! Alternating over an 8-mile course, you will run while your partner rides a bike & vice versa. Mountain/gravel bikes are best. For info or to reserve a bike, call 340-513-2707.

30 SATURDAY, 10AM-NOON

Little Artist Day Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Spring Edition in the Courtyard 340-772-2622, cmcarts.org

31 SUNDAY

Transfer Day The 107th Anniversary of the United States purchase of the Virgin Islands from Denmark.

Attractions & Tours SOAK UP SOME CULTURE!

ATTRACTIONS

apartment, courtyard gardens, second-story ballroom. King Street, Christiansted.

Arthur Abel Complex — 340-772-1000 A 1799 Danish school, now the Frederiksted Office of the Governor. Redesigned by architect William Taylor and dedicated to Arthur Abel, a St. Croix joiner and builder. Prince Street.

Lawaetz Family Museum — 340-473-1557 18th c. Danish homestead on National Historic Register. Managed by Ridge2Reef Farm.

Wed & Sat, 11am-3pm. Mahogany Road, Frederiksted.

Caravelle Hotel Casino — 340-773-0687 Slot machines, video poker, spin wheel. In-town transportation. Queen Cross St, Christiansted.

Sun-Thurs, 2pm-Midnight, Fri-Sat, 2pm-1am.

Lord God of Sabaoth Church — 340-773-1320 Sold to the Lutherans in 1831, originally a Dutch Reformed Church built in 1740s. King Street, Christiansted.

Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts — 340-772-2622 18th Century Danish townhouse, Artist-in-Residence program. Gift Shop, Strand Street, Frederiksted. Tues-Sat, 9am-4 pm.

Pt. Udall Millennium Monument Easternmost point in the US. A giant sundial marks the azimuth of the first sunrise of 2000.

Divi Carina Bay Casino —340-773-7529 21+. Slots & table games, restaurant, bar. Divi Carina Bay Resort. Open 7 days, 11am – 1am.

Ft. Frederik Museum —340-772-2021 1750s Historic Landmark . Permanent collections, exhibits. Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm. King St, Frederiksted.

Government House – 340-773-1404 1848 Historic Landmark, Offices, Governor’s

Schooner Denis Sullivan – 340-626-7877 Set sail on a Great Lakes Tall Ship! Sunset Sails mid-Dec-Mar. www.worldoceanschool.org The Seven Flags Museum – 340-277-2870 Call to reserve private party functions.

Whim Museum Research Library – 340-772-0598 Open Wed & Sat, 10am-3pm. Centerline Road, Frederiksted. Call for appointment.

St. Croix’s National Parks — 340-773-1460 1. Buck Island Reef National Monument Proclaimed a National Monument by President Kennedy in 1961. Spectacular beach, hiking/ snorkeling trails. 7 miles from Christiansted. Accessible by NPS Authorized Concessioners. www. nps.gov/buis 2. Christiansted National Historic Site Established in 1952, includes Ft. Christiansvaern, Old Customs House, Danish West India & Guinea Company Warehouse & Slave Market, and Old Scale House. Steeple Building is closed for renovations. Fort open 8:30am-4:30pm, Mon-Fri, closed Thanksgiving & Christmas Day. See Officers’ Day Room, Arsenal, Dungeon, and Cannons. Site parking. www.nps.gov/chri 3. Salt River Historical Park & Ecological Preserve Founded in 1992 in cooperation with the VI Government, the Park documents the human & natural Caribbean world of early indigenous settlements here 4000 years ago through the 1500s. Christopher Columbus landed here in 1493. Nature preserve. New Visitor’s Center opening soon. Northshore Road. www.nps. gov/sari

An Unforgettable Family Adventure

Februar y / March 2024 • 7

Attractions & Tours

DISCOVER LOCAL LIFE ON ONE OF OUR TOURS! TOURS

St. George Village Botanical Garden – 340-692-2874 16 acres, 1500 native/exotic species. Restored buildings/ruins of 19th century Danish sugar cane plantation. Site & Gift Shop open daily, 9am-3pm, Nursery, 1st Sat, 9am-Noon. Selfguided tours Mon-Sat, 9am-1pm; w/Dir. of Horticulture, Isador Ruderfer, last Thurs of month, 10am. Free for members, fee for others. thegardenstcroix.org

Alexander Hamilton Walking Tours – 340-277-4834. Downtown Christiansted.

Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30am. www.chantvi.org Carambola Zip Line—340-244-1464 Zip thru the rain-forest & across the Carambola Valley! 2 tours a day; call or book online. www.carambolazipline.com Cruzan Cowgirls - 340-690-RIDE Ride with us thru the Rain Forest, down the beach, and into the sea! Non-profit rescues horses, gives them 2nd chance, educates on their care. www.cruzancowgirls.com East End Marine Park, 340-718-3367 Wraps 17 miles around the East End. Protects 60 acres of coral reefs, seagrass meadows, beaches, shorelines, salt ponds, mangroves.

Tours, events, Visitors Center, 9:30am-4pm, Thurs & Fri. www.friendsstxeemp.org Frederiksted Walking Tours – 340-277-4834 Discover town history! Wednesdays, 9-11am. www.chantvi.org

St. George Village Botanical Garden. Experience the magic!

Sweeny’s St. Croix Safari Tours – 340-773-6700, Evenings, 340-773-9561 Open-air Safari bus to major attractions.

Narrated. Mon–Fri, 10am-3:45pm, departs Christiansted Taxi Stand, King Street, opposite Gov’t House.

Lush Picnics, LLC – 787-455-5868 Call to book one of our unique staged settings for a 2-hr celebration! Your food or ours & take away.

Think birthdays, milestones, sunsets! Facebook

The Nature Conservancy – 340-718-5575 Tour the Coral Innovation Hub, one of 3 in the Caribbean, Tues, 2pm. Estate Little Princess.

Ridge to Reef Farm – 340-473-1557 Grab a map for a Selfie Tour of this Certified Organic farm, Mon-Wed & Fri-Sat, 10am-4pm.

Group & students rates. Volunteer programs, farm stays, Bush Skills. www.ridge2reef.org

Artisan Craft Distillery – 340-725-6701 Corn whiskey fermented, distilled, & bottled on St. Croix. Free tours & tastings. Mon-Fri, 3-6pm, Sat-Sun, 10am-5pm. Hospital Street, just East of Christiansted.

DISTILLERIES

Mon-Fri, 10am – 3:45pm • Departs Christiansted Taxi Stand, King Street, opposite Gov’t House

Full Restaurant + Bar Air Conditioning Distillery View Free Tours Monday-Friday 11:30am-7:30pm Saturday Brunch 10am-2pm

NARRATED TOUR Botanical Gardens Lunch in Frederiksted Beer-Drinking Pigs North Shore Scenic Drive Columbus Landing

GARDEN AND GIFT SHOP OPEN DAILY! 9 A.M. TO 3 P.M. PHOTO: SUSAN WALL

340-773-6700, Evenings, Evenings, 340-773-9561 CallCall 340-773-6700, 340-773-9561 sjtouss@gmail.com • Ask •about Custom Tours sweenyjtoussaintjr@gmail.com Ask about Custom Tours

Relax & celebrate with a luxury picnic!

Tuesday Trivia Night 6pm Free Tours Every hour on the half hour 340.690.9322 4000 Sion Farm

Our unique setting | Your creative food & drinks Two-hour set-up / take away | Optional lite fare add-ons

Call to Book! 787-455-5868

8 • Februar y / March 2024

127 Estate St George, Frederiksted (340) 692-2874 www.thegardenstcroix.org

TRY LOCAL BREWS! Captain Morgan Distillery & Experience Center – 340-713-5654 Call for a Rum Tour & Tasting! Gift Shop open Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm. www.captainmorganvisitorcenter.com Cruzan Rum Distillery – 340-692-2280 Tour our historic distillery & experience Cruzan quality in every sip! Visit cruzanrum.com to reserve a tour.

Leatherback Brewing Company VI — 340-772-BEER Craft Beer Brewery &Tasting Room. Limited Releases 4 times a year. Casual food, Island Life store, self-tours, indoor/outdoor bar. Roebuck Industrial Park, just West of the airport. Open 7 days, 11:30am- 8pm. leatherbackbrewingcom Sion Farm Distillery & Restaurant, MUTINY Island Vodka - 340-690-9322 Caribbean’s first Island Vodka hand-crafted from breadfruit, distilled & bottled on St. Croix. Craft cocktails, flights, micro-batch releases, free tours. Open 11:30am-7:30pm, Happy Hour 4-5:55pm, Mon-Fri. Saturday Brunch, 10am-2pm. Island Dairies building, Sion Farm. www.sionfarmdistillery.com,

Februar y / March 2024 • 9

Shop Duty-Free!

LOCAL MARKETPLACE!

$1600.00

DUTY-FREE ALLOWANCE! For US citizens, this is

DOUBLE the $800.00 limit from other islands!

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will allow visitors to the USVI to enter the US with up to $1600.00 per person of duty-free purchases. ib designs. Be inspired.

Sharimar Cruz

JOINT DECLARATION

This is a Customs Declaration that can be made by family members who live in the same household and return to the United States together. These travelers can combine their purchases to take advantage of a combined flat duty rate, no matter which family member owns a given item. The combined value of merchandise subject to a Flat Duty Rate for a family of four traveling together would be $4,000. Purchase totals must be rounded to the nearest dollar amount.

ALCOHOL

If you are at least 21 years old, you may also take up to five liters of alcohol duty-free as part of your $1,600 exemption, as long as at least four liters were purchased in the USVI, and at least one of them is a product of the USVI, like Cruzan Rum. Liquor boxes are free to check aboard your return flight.

TOBACCO

Returning resident travelers may import tobacco products only in quantities not exceeding the amounts specified in the personal exemptions for which the traveler qualifies.

See below for up-to-date specifics on Customs Duty information concerning Rates, Duty-Free Shop articles, and Mailing and Shipping Goods.

LEARN MORE

US Customs & Border Protection www.cbp.gov • (877) 287-8667 10 • Februar y / March 2024

Shop Duty-Free!

TRY IT, LOVE IT, BUY IT! CHRISTIANSTED BOARDWALK SUBLIME STX Sun-Protective Clothing Text 941-527-2249

Made on St. Croix, our clothing images of animals, fish, coral, birds, turtles, waves, and more are digitized from licensed original paintings!

Lightweight and perfect for swimming, fishing, sailing, snorkeling, diving in UPF50+ moisture-wicking fabric Love your skin! Everything is Sublimation Dyed, so images never fade or wear off. We have a great selection of long and short sleeve shirts in men, women, youth and toddler styles plus dresses, sarongs, and buffs.

Also come for Pura Veda reef-friendly organic sun block and after sun products, sunglasses. Locally-crafted jewelry, and sandals. Located in the Boardwalk Market next to The Mill, we’re open Mon-Sat, 10am-6pm and Sun, 11am-5pm. Come on by! Sublimestx.com, facebook.

Asha World Designs. Indian spinning rings.

Subline STX. Artful sun protection.

UPF 50 + protective clothing blocks 98% of UVA/UVB rays.

Licensed original artwork, made on St. Croix!

Protect your skin & look good doing it!

10% OFF Mention this Ad

All sizes for Men, Women & Kids Located at the “Boardwalk Market” next to The Mill www.sublimeSTX.com text 941.527.2249 Photo: Susan Wall

Februar y / March 2024 • 11

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LOCAL, HANDCRAFTED JEWELRY A MUST! COMPANY STREET

Asha World Designs – 340-690-6512

Climb the steps by Common Cents Pub and you will find The Asha Shop. British owner Sarajane sells Eclectic World Adornments and Attire gleaned from her extensive travels. Her signature clothing line is designed locally and hand made with pride in India, Thailand and Bali using hand-printed, natural fabrics with globally sourced fabulous prints. Complimenting the ASHA collection you’ll discover a treasure trove of unique jewelry designs, accessories and capsule clothing lines from international independent designers.

Across the street, under the pink and gold sign, you’ll come upon Asha Bazaar, A House of Global Finds.

Our newest shop carries a selection of exquisite jewelry, bags, objects, candles, gifts, art, robes and home goods. We’ll look forward to welcoming you through our doors! www.ashaworlddesigns.com

Cultured Naturals Body Care & Home Scents – 340-626-8232 Sonya’s Fine Island Jewelry. The Original Crucian hook and more. Shop in store at 2101 Company Street or online at www.sonyaltdstore.com. | Follow us at @sonya.ltd.

Cultured_Naturals_BC Cultured Naturals Body Care

www.culturednaturalsbodycare.com 55 Company Street, C’std • 340-626-8232

#55 COMPANY STREET CHRISTIANSTED (UPSTAIRS)

Studio & Gallery ( 3 4 0 ) 2 4 4 - 3 1 1 0

12 • Februar y / March 2024

FantaSea Jewelry Studio & Gallery 340-244-3110

Locally made gemstone and island inspired jewelry, created on site by designer, Nicole Gariepy. Nicole has been making jewelry on St. Croix for over 20 years. Specializing in unique gemstones, Caribbean larimar, and precious metals, FantaSea designs reflect the movement of the ocean and energy of island life. The FantaSea Jewelry Studio has a new home on Company Street! Now located upstairs, next to Cultured Naturals and From the Gecko boutique. Our art gallery space showcases local art, featuring the paintings and prints of Maria Henle, the photographs of St. Croix’s premier photographer Fritz Henle, and the photography of Tina Henle. Visit fantaseajewelry.com for more and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

ib designs – 773-4322 (say “eye-bee”)

Handmade Gemstone & Island-Inspired Jewelry | Caribbean Larimar | Local Fine Art FANTASEAJEWELRY.COM

We’re a Green Beauty & Wellness Company based in Christiansted, St. Croix. Marrying Nature with Science, owner and nurse Ramone Reid creates clean, care products for Face, Body, Hair, & Home all boasting tropical and aromatherapeutic benefits. All their raw ingredients are sourced from small farmers or by wild-harvesting amazing ingredients such as Ylang Ylang, Lemongrass, Soursop, and Noni. At our Company Street store, we offer Candle Making classes for groups, couples, or special occasions. Open Mon – Fri, 10am – 4 pm . Selection of our products can be found at Jackies Beauty Supply, Sunny Isle Shopping Center. www.culturednaturalsbodycare.com

Cultured Naturals. Intentional Self-Care!

An island favorite in historic Christiansted, this gallery is home to the distinctive designs of local artist/metalsmith, Whealan Massicott. Whealan has been crafting for over 25 years and is fortunate to have a fabulous team of artisans join him in creating magical jewelry. Being a musician at heart allows life’s

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ALL IN A DAY’S FUN!

in sterling silver, 14 & 18 karat gold—bracelets, rings, earrings, and pendants. Our loyal customers continue to vote our jewelry #1 in the Virgin Islands. Visit us at www.sonyaltd.com. Toll-free: 877-766-9284.

UNIQUE by Maria Banwaree – 340-473-1104

This a boutique that offers fashion and beauty products, like women’s clothing, accessories, shoes, jewelry, and perfume, with particular quality characteristics, from name brands, local designers and artists, and our own creations. In the Art Studio, we bring that sense of authenticity to each piece we make, and to each child we teach, because we believe that everyone is unique on their own and that we can all create something amazing out of anything.

As part of our after-school program, we offer Art & Craft classes and homework space and help. For adults, there’s Sip and Paint classes. Private Parties are available for adults and kids as well as Spanish classes! We invite you to visit us and join a class.

Open Mon-Fri, 10-6, Sat, 10-7. Company Street.

IG, Facebook Unique by Maria Banwaree. Spirited clothes, accessories, fragrances.

Fanta Sea Jewelry. “Eye of the Storm” Necklace— Gold, Moonstone & Diamond.

movements, patterns, and rhythms to play out in his raw, organic designs. Ib designs Feel Good Jewelry is a salute to the simplicity of life and to the inspiration of creativity. Truly artful, truly unique, truly Caribbean!

Feel Good Jewelry for Feel Good People. Stop in to say hi to Whealan, Kris, and the rest of the ib family.

Find us on Facebook. www.islandboydesigns.com.

SONYA’S Fine Island Jewelry – 340-778-8605

Hook up with the Original—Sonya’s St. Croix Hook. Located at #1 Company Street since 1964, an introduction to the hand-wrought jewelry at Sonya’s begins with the pleasantly inexpensive hook bracelet which is often imitated, never duplicated. Our designs include: hurricanes, hearts, flowers, sea life, breast cancer awareness, and so much more. All creations are crafted

by Maria Banwaree ART STUDIO & BOUTIQUE Mon - Fri 10-6 • Sat 10 -7 6 Company Street | 340-473-1104 Oceanique Creations. Bring your found chaney or sea glass for a custom piece!

Februar y / March 2024 • 13

Shop Duty-Free!

BUY LOCAL!

KINGS ALLEY

Chaney Chicks & Island Gifts – 423-943-5430

We’re he friendliest gift shop on the island with the life-size Mocko Jumbie out front! We specialize in gifts from the US Virgin Islands, primarily hand-made on St Croix like Pirate Mike’s Local Hot Sauce, jams, soaps, local books, Waldemar Broadhurst Wire Art and more! We wire wrap found sea glass and Chaney into beautiful jewelry.

Found your own while on island? Bring in your sea glass and Chaney treasures to have custom pendants made for $20. We offer one-of-a-kind locally made pendants, earrings, and bracelets of sea glass and Chaney. Established in 2015 and featured on HGTV. Kings Alley, off the Christiansted Boardwalk. Open Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm.

Oceanique Creations – 321-438-3012

Belle Sorelle Beauty Bar. Suncloud "Rambler" polarized sunglasses.

Wear the ocean! Oceanique Creations specializes in local hand-made gifts and island jewelry featuring sea glass and Chaney. Check out Oceanique Creations for that perfect keepsake and take home a part of St. Croix. If you find your own sea glass

Chaney Chicks & Island Gifts. Chaney history in colorful pendants!

One-of-a Kind & Locally-Made Sea Glass & Chaney Jewelry Men’s & Women’s Designer

Azzaro - Bvlgari - Boucheron Caroline Herrera - Coach Dolce & Gabana Elizabeth Arden - Guerlain Jean Paul Gautier Jimmy Choo - Juicy Couture Miyake - Mont Blanc Mugler - Narciso Rodriguez Nina Ricci Paco Rabanne - Versace

FRAGRANCES COSMETICS SKINCARE HANDBAGS TOTES JEWELRY ACCESSORIES

“Be impossible to forget. ” King’s Alley Entrance, King Street | 340-713-4455 | Tues-Sat 10am-6pm Mailing List In-Store Signup 14 • Februar y / March 2024

Friendliest gift shop on St. Croix

Featured on

!

Pendants • Earrings Bracelets Pirate Mike’s Local Hot Sauce Jams • Soaps Local Books Waldemar Brodhurst Wire Art Bring in your found Sea Glass & Chaney treasures to have your pendants made for $20.

Kings Alley, off the Christiansted Boardwalk Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm • (423) 943-5430

Shop Duty-Free!

WHAT’S IN STORES!

or Chaney treasure, we can also design a special piece just for you! We also carry locally-made jewelry, hot sauce, art, soaps, candles, glassware and so much more—perfect options at an affordable price! Come in as guests and leave as friends!

Located in King’s Alley just off Strand Street in Christiansted. Open Monday - Saturday 10 5pm. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

KING STREET

Belle Sorelle Beauty Bar – 340-713-4455

Shop imported designer fragrances and cosmetics from Bvlgari, Guerlain, Boucheron, Dolce & Gabanna, Caroline Herrera, Paco Rabanne, Jean Paul Gautier, Issey Miyake, Narciso Rodriguez, Nina Ricci, Elizabeth Arden, Elizabeth Taylor, Juicy Couture, Azzaro, Mugler, Mont Blanc, Jimmy Choo, Coach and Versace. Also look for designer handbags, totes, jewelry and accessories. Located at the entrance to Kings Alley on King Street, across from Government House. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 6pm. Facebook.

Bougainvillea Perfumeria. j’adore L'OR a full and voluptuous perfume, celebrating power and sensuality

KNG Men’s Clothing & Accessories. Good looks, great accessories, fine colognes.

OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM Duty-free, locally owned & operated.

Approved retailer of fine fragrances, natural & luxury skin care & cosmetics.

All products from certified & authorized distributors.

41 King Street, Christiansted | 340.719.6020 | @bougainvillea41king

Februar y / March 2024 • 15

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FOUND ON ST. CROIX! KING STREET cont...

Bougainvillea @ 41 King –340-719-6020

Find the Fragrances That Inspire. Get lost in the Beauty that is YOU! Walk into a welcoming cloud of beautiful fragrance at the finest locally-owned and operated perfume and skin care boutique on St. Croix. An Approved dutyfree retailer of exclusive lines by CHANEL, Lalique,Gucci, Cartier, Dior, Marc Jacobs, Versace, Carolina Herrera and many more. Explore a vast selection of natural & luxury skin care cosmetics by Bare Minerals and Shiseido. Enhance your daily skin care routine with facial cleansers, feather light serums, and rich, luxurious products. Play with mineral colors for your face and eyes—mascaras to make them pop and a bouquet of lip colors. Open Mon-Sat, 9:30am - 5:30pm. All fragrances and cosmetic/skin care products from certified/ authorized distributors. FB and IG

KNG Men’s Clothing and Accessories Baci Duty Free. Vahan timeless, luxury jewelry collections since 1968.

Downtown Christiansted now has it’s only highend Men’s clothing boutique. KNG offers a “wow” factor when you enter the store, clean, cool, mod-

Hotheads. Fun looks for any time of day!

MON - SAT, 10AM - 6PM QUEEN CROSS & STRAND ST, CHRISTIANSTED 340-773-5040 - 340-332-4449 bacidutyfree.com

largest selection of cigars in the vI! STATE-OF-THE-ART WALK-IN CEDAR HUMIDOR.

16 • Februar y / March 2024

CONTEMPORARY MEN’S CLOTHING SPECIAL ORDERS TAILORING SERVICES WATCHES - CIGARS COLOGNES MEN’S ACCESSORIES

Tuesday - Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm King Street, Christiansted

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ISLAND COOL!

Caledonia Wellness, LLC – 340-332-1900

We strive to care for the whole person. We are a boutique wellness retail store with CBD and D9 including gummies, smokables and edibles, homeopathy, tinctures, Rescue Remedy, handmade semi-precious stone jewelry, aromatherapy, essential oils, herbal and caffeinated teas, healthy drinks, art, bath and body, and gifts including leather journals, stickers, candles, and crystal trees! We have products for pain, stress relief, intimacy, sleep assistance, pet anxiety and pain, and menopause. Located in the beautiful Apothecary Courtyard at Queen and Queen Cross Streets, one block east of the Christiansted Post Office. Hours: Monday-Wednesday via phone call, Thursday-Friday 11a-6p, Saturday 11a-4p. Just call if a note is on the door! Someone will be there quickly.

Instagram: @caledoniawellness | Facebook: Caledonia Wellness LLC

Hotheads – 340-773-7888 Caledonia Wellness. Tailor your destiny with this Garnet-leafed, “Pursuit of Passion” Tree of Life.

This trendy shop has swimwear for all shapes and sizes including hard-to-find separates, cup sizes, long torso, and attractive styles for full-figured women. We also carry colorful sarongs, cover-ups, bags,

Joyia Inspirational Jewelry. Check out the NEW Mobius Collection!

Kelly Greer

ern with contemporary clothing, accessories, and urban attire—the array you need to meet your fashion needs. Our motto is to make every man that walks through our door look and feel like a “KING.” We can special order items to fit your style and provide tailoring services for the best fit.

Our store also sells watches, cigars, colognes, and men accessories. Stop by the store on King Street and visit us on Facebook and Instagram. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5:00pm.

QUEEN CROSS STREET Baci Duty Free – 340-773-5040

On the corner of Queen Cross and Strand Street, Baci has been here to serve you for the past 26 years! See our large assortment of local hand-made island hook bracelets in silver, gold and black/gold/ silver Titanium. Try on St. Croix’s most-wanted designer USA hand-made stacking bracelet by Vahan in silver and gold with diamonds and other gem stones. Chaney, Larimar, Lafonn, St. Croix beads for Pandora, Atocha ship wreck and Greek, Roman coin jewelry. South Sea Pearl necklaces.

Designer sunglasses from Gucci, Kate Spade, and many more. Polarized sport sunglasses from Costa, Oakley, Maui Jim, Ray-Ban, and Salt Life. Swiss watches from Alpina, Frederick Constant, Luminox, Mido, Swiss Army, and Tissot. Japanese-made from Bering, Casio, Citizen, Guess, Invicta, and Seiko. The largest walk-in cigar humidor in the VI with top-selling brands from Arturo Fuente, Padron, My Father, Monte Cristo, Macanudo and Cohiba. Largest selection of rums from around the world like Ron Zacapa. www.bacidutyfree.com Februar y / March 2024 • 17

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SHOP TIME, TAKE TIME! QUEEN CROSS STREET cont... great accessories, casual and dressy clothing, and sandals. And…the reason for the name – hats, hats, and more hats! Visit our store on Queen Cross Street near Strand. Open Monday – Saturday, 10am-6pm. Check new arrivals on Facebook.

JOYIA-Inspirational Jewelry – 340-713-4JOY (4569)

Artist and jeweler, Joyia Jones, invites you to visit her family-operated studio where we create handcrafted jewelry using silver, gold, and precious stones. Set your intention with our free engraving that allows you to customize your Joyia jewelry with an inspirational word, name or date. Check out our collection of one-of-a-kind antique spoon pendants, cuffs, and rings. Jump on the trend of mixing metals with our stackable rings and bangles and don’t forget to take a look at our unique square jewelry – we have square rings, bangles, and necklaces! Be inspired. Be creative. Be intentional. Check us out on Facebook and Instagram! Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm.

Queen Cross Street www.joyiajewelry.com

CMCA Gift Shop. Stained glass by Patricia TullisConn.

Purple Papaya. Largest selection of ladies and men’s swimwear.

STRAND STREET

Finest Gift Shop

Crucian Gold- 340-244-2996

in the Virgin Islands

FEEL THE LOVE and discover how Crucian Gold’s original designs are inspired by St. Croix’s natural beauty and culture. Visit our Christiansted store where Nathan Bishop and our family of jewelers create the Island Bracelets, Chaney Collection, and a wide array of stunning original silver and gold artisan jewelry and gifts.

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, FB & IG, www.cruciangold.com CALEDONIA WELLNESS, LLC Whole-Person Wellness 340-332-1900 Queen Cross St, Christiansted

For all your vacation needs!

Men • Women • Children T-shirts • Hawaiian shirts Sun dresses • Swim suits Embroidered clothing Sandals • Sun Lotion Towels • Souvenirs Sweatshirts

Pan Am Pavilion, Strand Street Christiansted • (340) 713-9412 18 • Februar y / March 2024

Purple Papaya – 340-713-9412

Nested in St. Croix’s historic Christiansted, and embedded in the hearts and minds of everyone who has entered through its doors, is the Purple Papaya Souvenir and Gift Shop. The store is loaded with a full line of souvenirs, cold drinks and snacks, the largest selection of embroidered tee shirts and sweatshirts, Hawaiian shirts and dresses, sun tan lotions, sunglasses, towels, hats & caps, batteries, and quality beach/swimwear for the entire family. So, if you are looking for excellent customer service, and quality merchandise, come on in. It’s the island’s number one spot for all your Duty Free shopping, and vacation needs. It’s where you always get more for Le$$!

RJS Handmade Designs – 340-642-3291

Expect the best from Jeweler, Rosa Asencio! For over 18 years, her unique, handmade gold and silver jewelry has received the highest level of customer satisfaction.

In addition to forging, hammering, texturizing and soldering, Rosa uses the solids, clear and printed plastic table coverings, craft and notion supplies, infant and children’s Lost Wax Casting Method – an ancient pro-

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FRESH TAKES!

FREDERIKSTED

CMCA Gift Shop – 340-772-2622

Local Art & Crafts at your fingertips—Annual “Island Art & Soul” Calendars (buy online), Books, Cloth and Carved Bowls, Greeting Cards, Home Accessories, Jewelry, Dolls, Glass, Beaded, and Shell Ornaments, Paintings, Pottery, Prints, Tee Shirts, Tiles, Wall Hangings, and Wire Sculptures. Inventory changes regularly so check us out often! Visit the new Gift Shop at Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts, housed in an 18th-century Danish townhouse on the Waterfront, Strand Street, Frederiksted. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 9am – 4pm and “Cruise Ship Days.” www.cmcarts.org.

Like us on Facebook!

GALLOWS BAY

Enso Indigo Home – 340-513-3195

RJS Handmade Designs. New bracelets! Find yours!

Back in the late 70s, 80s, and early 90s, islanders and visitors devoured Java Wraps sarongs, clothes, and take-out decor. Even if this is not a fond memory for you, you’re in for a treat as Twila Wilson and Kobie Nichols reincarnate this popular vibe into an all-encompassing home store. They’ve found a way to bring back those incredible textiles, create

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Small Wonder – 340-773-5551

1104 Strand St. Christiansted

(340) 642-3291

www.rjshandmadedesigns.com

Trends! - 340-719-5633

This boutique has had three transformations—first Fashion Cove in 1983, then Avant Garde, and now Trends! owned by Lisa Bhola. Here you’ll find everything a woman could want, head to toe, for any occasion.

Peruse through brands like Tribal Sportswear, Charlie B from Canada, Habitat Zen Knits, Bali Batik and Pineapple, and John Michael Richardson handmade jewelry.

Great linen selection! If you’re looking for that special accessory, they’ve got the sandals, leather and vegan bags, hats, and sarongs to fit the bill. Strand Street near King Cross, open Mon – Thurs, 10am – 5pm, Sat, 10am – 5:30. FB, trendsboutiquevi, IG, trends.boutique_stx

10:18 AM

Trends! Classic fashion with a punch!

cess dating back thousands of years to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Although demanding, it rewards the artisan with an object of great individuality. Visit the store to see the complete collections, inspired by the islands beauty and culture. “something is bound to catch your eye!” Strand Street in Christiansted. www.rjshandmadedesigns.com; FB, IG

A delightful children’s store filled with a large selection of swimsuits, sunhats, sunglasses, St. Croix tee shirts, sundresses & shirts in tropical prints—cool, 100% cotton & linen clothing for boys & girls in sizes from Newborn to Pre-teen. Also find sturdy wooden educational toys, doll houses, rocking horses & train sets by Plan & Brio. Special items include sterling silver feeding spoons, ceramic piggy banks, adorable stuffed animals, dolls & doll furniture, children’s tables & chairs, baby & children’s accessories, plus year-round holiday & event costumes. Layaway & Baby Shower Registry available. Located just steps from the Government Parking lot at 1110 Strand Street.

1/26/07

Just Steps from the Gov’t Parking Lot!

Tropical print Sundresses & Shirts Swimsuits and Sunglasses Sunhats St. Croix Tee Shirts Sun Hats, Swimsuits & Dresses Wooden Toys 4 Company St., Christiansted 1110 Strand Street, Christiansted

340-773-5551

Women’s Work, Play, Dinner to Wedding Fashions!

Lots of Linen!

Jewelry ~ Sandals Bags ~Totes Hats ~ Sarongs M-TH 10am-5pm F-SAT 10am-5:30pm Strand Street, Christiansted 340 719-5633 Small Wonder. Clothes and toys for boys and girls from around the world.

Februar y / March 2024 • 19

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BUY LOCAL!

GALLOWS BAY cont...

new designs, and mix it all with new-found objects.

The name Enso says it all for them as a sacred Zen Buddha symbol representing strength and elegance and the manifestation of the artist at the moment of creation. This store will, no doubt, evolve into something very special for St. Croix. Located in Gallows Bay, in the orange Arawak building, with front and back entrances. Open Mon-Fri, 10am-5pm, Sat, 10am-4:30pm.

Undercover Books – 340-719-1567

If you are looking for an independent bookstore in St. Croix, Undercover Books & Gifts in Gallows Bay is it. The Bistro is located right next door, so you can enjoy a cup of coffee after browsing the shelves.

Undercover has everything you need in a bookstore.

You will find the latest in fiction, and non-fiction as well as a fantastic children’s section. Don’t be surprised if you run into one or two local writers while you’re there; they have a great local interest selection and provide a comprehensive representation of the local talent. Open Mon – Fri, 9 am – 5 pm, Sat, 10 am – 4:30 pm. www.undercoverbooksstcroix.com Undercover Books & Gifts. A fun place to shop!

The Hunt. Rare finds of all kinds!

AROUND THE ISLAND The Hunt – 340-277-1846

This consignment store on St. Croix overflowing with a refreshing and always-changing mix of all styles of furniture, lamps, wall art, and decorative pieces.

Come on out, search the floor, shelves, baskets, and crates — you may discover a unique rarity or something you weren’t even looking for! You can’t resist this stuff, it’s all fascinating collectibles that you never knew you wanted! At the corner of Northshore and Midland Roads, pull into the parking lot at the orange buildings, two of them, chock full for you.

Text Pamela for more info.

Fresh Produce. Bakery.

Gourmet Cheeses. Full Service Butcher. Deli. Salad & Soup Bar. Hot Prepared Foods.

Extensive Selection of Wine, Beer & Liquor

Plaza Extra East – 340-778-6240

Great Price. Right Value. With great low prices, Plaza Extra East features thousands of your favorite grocery store brands as well as foreign specialty foods, bulk packaged items, a full service bakery, deli, and prime meat counter. Plaza offers a large produce section featuring fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs, including locally grown items. In addition to a wide selection of wine and spirits, Plaza Extra East is also home to Doctors Choice Pharmacy. Conveniently located in Peter’s Rest, Plaza Extra East is your one stop, shopping destination for all your grocery, home, and personal care needs. www.plazaextraeast.com

The St. George Village Botanical Garden Museum Store – 340-692-2874

Remember your trip to the St. George Village Botanical Garden and St. Croix with a Caribbean-themed gift from the Garden’s Museum Store! We carry a unique collection of handmade and locally-sourced items, 20 • Februar y / March 2024

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TIMELESS HANDCRAFTED DESIGNS!

carefully curated by Store Manager, Nicole Chin, and her talented staff. The Shop features books by local authors, salves and botanicals made with island-grown ingredients, and botanically-themed jewelry. Sample a taste of the island with Peachey’s delicious pastries and rum cake, and locally-brewed and bottled Bush Tea. Or, just drop by and enjoy a fresh brewed cup of coffee and a pastry in our NEW Picnic Pavilion! The Garden and Museum Store are open EVERY DAY, 9 am to 3 pm. www.thegardenstcroix.org

Sweet Lime Furnishings – 340-719-6360

Want that WOW factor in your home or condo?

Sweet Lime Furnishings, on Constitution Hill, can help you get it, with indoor furniture made from teak, mahogany and other durable hardwoods; outdoor furniture in elegant unfinished teak, manmade wicker over aluminum frames or durable plastic lumber with a 20-year warranty; comfy sofas and chairs in washable or Sunbrella fabrics; exotic, one-of-a-kind pieces and the work of some of St. Croix’s best-known artists. Our inventory is huge, and we’re adding to it all the time! We’re also happy to special order. Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–4pm. www.sweetlimefurnishings.com, Facebook Crucian Gold. Handcrafted artisan bracelets.

GALLOWS BAY 340 513-3195 Enso Indigo Home. Discover our collection of Glasshouse home fragrances.

Undercover Books & Gifts

INDOOR & OUTDOOR

St. George Village Botanical Garden Museum Store. Laser-cut Moko Jumbies!

Gallows Bay, St. Croix

Phone: 340-719-1567 Phone: 719-1567

FURNITURE, ART, ACCESSORIES 6F Constitution Hill, St. Croix, USVI 340-719-6360 sweetlimefurnishings.com

Februar y / March 2024 • 21

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TELL ME WHERE TO SHOP!

Asha World Designs

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Baci Duty Free Belle Sorelle Beauty Bar Botanical Garden Museum Store Bougainvillea @ 41 King Cane Roots Art Gallery Calendonia Wellness Chaney Chicks & Island Gifts Christa’s Art Gallery CMCA Gift Shop

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Enso Indigo Home FantaSea Jewelry

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Sonya, Ltd. SUBLIME STX

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Small Wonder

The Hunt

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Sweet Lime Furnishings

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Mitchell-Larsen Studio

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Cruzan Gardens Cultured Naturals Body Care

Nursery / Garden Supplies

Local Fruits / Preserves / Produce

Liquor

Jewelry

Home Furnishings/Accessories

Hemp Products

Handbags/Totes

Fashion Eyewear/Sunglasses

Fashion Accessories/Watches

Crystal / China

Coffee / Tea / Condiments

Clothing - Women

Clothing - Men

Clothing - Children

Cigars / Cigar Humidor

Books / Cards

Beach / Travel Gadgets

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FIND IT HERE!

Art / Crafts / Paintings/Fabric

Easy Shopping Guide

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Eat & Drink CHRISTIANSTED

Coconut Chocolate flavors. Look for NEW flavors every month like Black Current, and Sorrel coming up! Stop by for a free Tasting Monday-Friday, 3-6pm and Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm. Located on Hospital Street (Rt. 75) just East of Christiansted before the By-Pass—look for the large Copper Still! Gift Shop towels, tees, shot glasses, flasks and more!

Breakers Roar – 340-773-6330

Breakers Roar Tiki Bar. Pupu Platter.

Artisan Craft Distilling Co – 340-725-6701 We take great pride in fermenting, distilling, and bottling right on the premises using locally-sourced corn for our signature White Lightning Moonshine, and local fruits in small batch special fermentations like Pomegranate, Coffee, Apple Pie, and

Nautical themed Caribbean Tiki Bar featuring over 20 unique and flavorful Tiki cocktails made from local fresh squeezed juices, rums and spices in all the fun and creative tiki glasses. Set overlooking Fort Christian Harbor boardwalk, Breaker is open Wednesday to Sunday from 6 pm until late. Classic Tiki Bar food offerings include the classic Pu-Pu platter, Sweet chili wings, Nori truffle fries & more. The party continues with Breakers Happy Hour, every day from 6 pm to 8 pm. Located at the West end of the waterfront boardwalk in the base of Historic King Christian Hotel. Follow us on FB & Insta @ breakersroartikibar for the latest.

Artisan Craft Distillery Corn Whiskey Fermented, Distilled, & Bottled on St. Croix

Free Tastings!

Mon-Fri 3-6pm Sat-Sun 11am-5pm or by appointment

(340) 725-6701 Hospital Street East of Christiansted

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Wednesday – Saturday Brunch 10am-3pm • Dinner 6-10pm LateNite 11pm-2am (Friday-Saturday) 813-495-3244 King’s Alley, Downtown Christiansted

juices & fitness center

Yoga - Barre - Smoothies Juice - Breakfast - Lunch Monday - Saturday, 8 am - 6 pm

340-773-7728 www.thecourtyardstx.com

Kalima Center, King Street, across from Government House 24 • Februar y / March 2024

Cream & Co. Ice cream treats in all sizes, shapes, and flavors!

BREW STX – 340-719-6339 BREWSTX is St. Croix’s only restaurant and microbrewery located on the beautiful Christiansted boardwalk. The two-level waterfront venue provides spectacular views perfect for dining in or for private parties. The menu features local seafood entrees, steak dinners, delicious appetizers, and a variety of handhelds. Enjoy any meal with one of our house-crafted brews on tap! (Full bar available). Open Monday - Saturday, 11am – 10pm, Sunday, 11am – 9pm. www.brewstx.com, FB

The Courtyard - 340-773-7728 Right across the street from Government House on King Street, you’ll find the hidden oasis called The Courtyard. Known for its locally-sourced, organic cold press juices, and fresh fruit smoothies, they now offer soups, salads, sandwiches and quiche along with Vegan and gluten- free options! Sip a cup of coffee, relax, and take a peek at our latest ‘artist-of-the-month’ works on display. Most weekends, we offer Art, Yoga, or Wine and Food Workshops; schedule on our Facebook page. Open Monday - Saturday, 8 am - 6 pm; give us a call for drive-thru or pick-up service! We’re available for private parties up to 50 people. www.thecoutyardstx.com, Facebook.

Cream & Co. – 340-773-6330 Choose from simple scoops and ice cream cones, to signature milkshakes and tropical ice cream floats. For the more discerning palates, try our signature crepe sundaes featuring Crucian-inspired ice cream flavors like Mocha Jumbie, Peanut Punch, and Ginger Lemongrass.

Located in the historic King Christian Hotel along the Christiansted Boardwalk, Cream & Co. is open Sunday thru Thursday from 11am-8pm, and Friday and Saturday from 11am-10pm. Follow us on Instagram @creamandcoicecream for the latest scoop!

Februar y / March 2024 • 25

Eat & Drink CHRISTIANSTED

where every moment is a celebration! Follow us on FB & Insta @el_leon_restaurant for the latest.

Cruzian Bayou Bistro – 813-495-3244 Welcome Cruzian Bayou Bistro, A taste of New Orleans with an Island Flair, into their new Kings Alley location but expect the same care and attention to guest satisfaction & hospitality! We’re excited to feature the 2023 Iron Bartender, 1st place “Mango Melee” Beverages, 2nd place “Taste Of St. Croix,” and 2nd place Cruzan Rum National Bartender Mixologist Jibril Williams, serving cold refreshing drinks, spirits and invigorating mocktails, with a warm smile, alongside Chef Christy Brown, 2023 “Taste of St Croix“ 2nd place Best Vegetarian. Cruzian Bayou Bistro, at last food NOT fast food. Located just off the boardwalk.

Open Wed-Sun. Brunch, 10am-3pm, Dinner, 6-10, LateNite, 11pm-2am, Fri & Sat. IG, TicTok

El Leon – 340-773-6330 Experience the essence of Mexico at El Leon Contemporary Mexican Restaurant, with stunning Caribbean Sea views on the Christiansted boardwalk next to the King Christian Hotel. Indulge in our dinner service, available Wednesday to Sunday from 5 pm to 10pm. Join the fiesta with happy

Luncheria ­­— 340-773-4247

El Leon. Try a Breakfast Bowl at this contemporary Mexican restaurant!

hour, Friday to Sunday from 3 pm to 6 pm, with $3 off all margaritas, $4 Tacos, and irresistible Nacho specials! Start your weekends delightful with brunch served on Saturday and Sunday, from 10 am to 3 pm. Skip the line & visit Opentable.com to make your reservation. Walk-ins are always welcomed! Join us on the Christiansted boardwalk

This restaurant is an institution on St. Croix - a taste of Mexico in Christiansted for 39 years! All the locals know owner, Lenny, and Louie, bartender on Thursday and Friday evenings, making the best Margaritas - your way! Enter through the big pillars and follow the Danish brick wall up to the bar for ordering. Enjoy all your favorites, at casual tables in a terraced, outdoor courtyard - Nachos, Salads, Quesadillas, Burritos, Enchiladas, Tacos and Tostadas. Enjoy “Two’fer Tuesday” with 2 Tacos for $5, and 2 Beers for $5. End then there’s “Thursday Night Tacos,” 2 Tacos for $3, dine in only. Located on Company Street in Apothecary Hall and open Monday - Saturday, 11 am - 9 pm, Thursday 11 am - 10 pm, closed Sundays.

Nate’s Boathouse – 340-692-6283 Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch on our boardwalk patio or in our breezy, open-air restaurant overlooking beautiful Christiansted

340-773-3400

T U E S - S AT 8 PM - 2 A M

Pan Am Pavilion

the best late night spot on the boardwalk! kitchen Hours:

340.474.4328

Monday-Saturday 11am-10pm sunday 11am-9pm

@shupesstx

340-719-6339

MICROBREWERY & RESTAURANT kitchen hours:

Monday-Saturday 11am-10pm sunday 11am-9pm weekly events & Catering available @brewstx

26 • Februar y / March 2024

Fresh Local Lobster Fish, Crab, Steaks, Vegan

8am-9pm, 7 days a week 1/2 Price Happy Hour 4-6pm Daily

Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner

On the Boardwalk, Christiansted

www.stxboathouse.com 340-692-6283

BREAKFAST | LUNCH Mon-Fri, 9am-2:30pm Penthany Courtyard

46 King Street 340-713-2233

Eat & Drink

CHRISTIANSTED / GALLOWS BAY Harbor. Watch the local fishing boats deliver their daily catch of Wahoo, Tuna, or Mahi-Mahi—we specialize in the fresh seafood brought to our dock every day. Creative dinner options incorporate an eclectic blend of world cuisines along with a unique, affordable wine list. Drink specials from the most complete bar on the island. Open 7 days, 8am – 9pm, ½ -Price Happy Hour, 4–6pm. FB, IG. www.stxboathouse.com

space, as well as outdoor seating. Free Wi-Fi is available onsite. Open daily from 7am. Follow @ vicoffeeroastersstx on Instagram for the latest.

Z Café - 340-713-2233

SHUPE’S on the Boardwalk – 340-773-3400 Looking for something affordable and quick?

Look no further! Shupe’s on the Boardwalk offers casual waterfront dining, featuring fresh, handground burgers, hand-cut fries, chicken wings, veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, soft-serve ice cream, and more. All meals served in an easy-travel paper bag. Of course, a full bar at your disposal as well! The best spot on the Boardwalk for burgers and beer! Open Monday – Saturday, 11am – 10pm; Sunday, 11am – 9pm. FB, IG.

Velvet Haze Lounge - 340-474-4328 Located in the Pam Am Pavilion in historic downtown Christiansted, Velvet Haze is a unique upscale “Hookah” lounge with world class customer service and ambiance. This lounge has a “smooth” flair with inviting décor and comfort. Our lounge provides you with an upscale feel and local hospitality. We are known for the best “hookahs” on island paired with great cocktails. We also sell cigars and offer a variety of vape flavors. Check out our famous Karaoke night every Thursday and our guest DJ’s every weekend.

Tuesday 8pm-2am, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 8-2 am.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Our world class formula is: Hookah+Cigars+Cocktails =good vibes!

Z Café. Lunch for 3. Chicken salad sandwich. Tomato/ goat cheese quiche. Mediterranean salad.

and smoothies. Choose from traditional drip coffee, or coffee drinks including cappuccinos, lattes, espressos, and macchiatos. Don’t forget to grab a sweet treat from the pastry case, or pick up a bag of freshly roasted coffee beans to take home.

Virgin Islands Coffee Roasters has a large indoor

Truly a hidden gem in the heart of Christiansted. The cobble stone dining patio is the most charming on St. Croix. Located in the courtyard of the Pentheny building; dating back over 200 years. Take your time, enjoy a glass of Prosecco, can of local beer or bush tea. Appreciate the history of a rich and diverse setting while enjoying Gyros, an artisan salad or a hot pressed short rib panini. Chef Jamey Hughson’s culinary diversity and technique are unmatched on St. Croix. The meals are freshly prepared with love and care, the ambiance is relaxed and tranquil, and there’s new friends and memories to be made. Offering a quick grab-n-go breakfast and/or a relaxed elegant lunch, hearty and meaty meals, vegan and vegetarian options plus plenty of sweets for your tooth. You won’t be disappointed dining with us or carrying away. Open Mon-Fri, 9am-2:30

Virgin Islands Coffee Roasters – 340-773-6330 Located at the King Christian Hotel, VICR serves artisanal small batch roasted coffee, as well as tea

Best Margaritas & Signature Drinks!

Tues-Fri 11am-9pm Sat 12-9pm & Sun 3:30-8:30pm

Februar y / March 2024 • 27

$10 Pool Passes • Happy Hour 3 - 5pm every day 340.249.0700 • www.grapetreebayhotel.com

GALLOW'S BAY/EAST END

LUNCH BRUNCH DINNER BEACHSIDE POOLSIDE

GALLOWS BAY

Maria’s Cantina & Sports Bar – 340-713-0222

Open 11am - 3pm MON-SAT SUNDAY Brunch Buffet 10am - 3pm

The FAR EAST RESTAURANT Open THURS - SAT 5:00pm - 9:00pm On our Sea Terrace Level

This Mexican Restaurant & Sports Bar (little Mexico in Gallows Bay) is owned by Chef Maria Fonrouge— actually from Mexico! They will transport you there with authentic Mexican cuisine—something for everyone—meat lovers to vegan. Burritos and Tacos, made-to-order, are served as fast as you can say “Andale!” Special-value Kids Menu. Margaritas, Sangria, Micheladas, and Maria’s Signature Drinks made fresh daily. There are 14 TVs for our Sport Fans. Eat in AC or in the courtyard. Kitchen open Tuesday-Friday, 11am-9pm, Saturdays, Noon9pm, Sundays (in season), 3:30-8:30pm. Check facebook for menus and daily specials.

Seaside Market & Deli – 340-719-9393

Pizzas, sandwiches, and salads Open 3pm - 9pm 7 nights a week!

Live music weekly

Seaside Market & Deli is St. Croix’s only gourmet market! With a full-service bakery and deli, Seaside offers made-to-order sandwiches, fresh breads, deli meats, and a variety of sweet treats. Shop Seaside for a huge selection of wines, gourmet cheeses, specialty food items, and the freshest meat and seafood on island. We feature a variety of convenient, ready-

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28 • Februar y / March 2024

Eat & Drink EAST END / FREDERIKSTED

Duggan’s Reef — 340-773-9800 It’s easy to see why this beachfront restaurant, an informal, open-to-the-breeze spot overlooking Buck Island, has been a local favorite for more than 40 years—voted Best Seafood on St. Croix by readers of the Daily News! Start off with drinks or your choice from the wine list.

We specialize in local lobster and fresh fish.

Also enjoy pasta, filet mignon, and our choice of freshly prepared desserts. Reservations welcomed! Dinner served 6 nights a week; closed Sundays and closed annually Sept 26-Oct 18.

Goat, Soup and Whiskey – 340-773-3333 Goat Soup & Whiskey. Try a Coco Loco!

made foods including a fresh soup and salad bar, and a buffet featuring hot entrees and sides plus a large selection of fresh produce, including local selections, and a coffee & juice bar featuring your favorite coffee drinks, fresh squeezed juices and smoothies. Seaside Market & Deli – Eat Fresh. Live Smart. Facebook

EAST END

The Buccaneer Restaurants – 340-712-2100 Minutes east of Christiansted, The Buccaneer celebrates its 75th year; family-owned and operated for three generations. Lunch is served beachfront daily at The Mermaid and seasonally at Beauregard’s on the Beach. On Monday nights, The Mermaid hosts its Grill Night with music, beach games, and fire dancers; Tuesdays offer a Marketplace with local shopping, steel band and moko jumbies. The Terrace restaurant and The Martel Lounge offer additional options for dinner Wednesday-Sunday, as well as seasonal entertainment. Brunch is served on Sundays. Menus offer fresh and wild-caught fish and shrimp, prime meats, locally-sourced salads, pastas, and vegetarian dishes. There’s an extensive wine list and each restaurant features a children’s menu. Reservations are required for dinner. www.thebuccaneer.com

SANDWICHES - FULL BAR BRUNCH - LUNCH - DINNER Current Hours for Kitchen & Bar + Menus and Specials on our Facebook page!

“Get Stuffed!”

Welcome to the Goat! Lunch service begins at 11:30am with appetizers, soups, salads and sandwiches. Enjoy your lunch with a glass of wine, beer, or a fresh-squeezed Caribbean cocktail.

Dinner service begins at 5pm with Steaks, Chops, Seafood, and Pastas combining with the delicious lunch offerings. Pair your dinner with a selection from the wine list or from the extensive craft cocktail menu. Choose fresh coffee, espresso or cappuccino to compliment in-house desserts. At Sunday Brunch, from 10am – 2pm, take in views of Buck Island with a glass of Champagne, a Mimosa, or build-your-own Bloody Mary. Our alfresco dining room is located at Coakley Bay Condominiums on East End Road. Dinner reservations recommended, ThursTues, 11:30am – 9pm. Closed Wednesdays.

Waterfront Outdoor & indoor Seating - a/c Daily Specials Draft Beer • Great Wine Craft Cocktails

Sea Terrace Restaurant & East End Bar 340-249-0700 Our Sea Terrace restaurant, on the ocean level, in an open, airy, covered gallery, is open for lunch, Mon-Sat, 11am-3pm and Sun, 10am-3pm for All-You-Can-Eat Brunch. Our kitchen chefs create daily specials with locally-sourced ingredients along with seafood, American and international cuisine. The East End Bar offers casual dining under the stars from 3-9pm daily. Enjoy house-made pizzas, fresh sandwiches and salads while listening to live music. Our newest fine dining spot is The Far East Restaurant, Japanese-inspired steakhouse and sushi, open Thurs-Sat, 5-9pm. We can host your private event, birthday or wedding with our catering menus. Take a dip in the pool, with a daily pool pass for purchase. Call or use Open Table for reservations. www.grapetreebayhotel.com

Strand Street, across from the pier above molly’s, thru alley, up steps Open Daily noon - 11pm 340-773-5227 | TapDeckSTX.com

The Sausage Shack - 340-713-4804 Corner, 7 Flags & East End Road

340 713-4804

Eastend’s newest hangout! We offer a casual atmosphere for the whole family to chillax with fresh delicious gourmet comfort food and desFebruar y / March 2024 • 29

Eat & Drink FREDERIKSTED / MID-ISLAND

Their menu of “eclectic, French, Mediterranean, Crucian Fusion” includes wild-caught seafood and the use of local, farm-fresh ingredients. Entrée Award Winner, Taste of St. Croix. Open for dinner, Mon–Sat, 6-10pm. Nightly entertainment, 7-9pm.

Daily Specials on facebook.

serts, ice cold beverages including specialty frozen island cocktails, great music and games. Follow us on Facebook (The Sausage Shack STX) for our menus and daily specials like 2 for Tuesdays, Frozen Fridays & Spectacular Saturday Brunch.

The best Italian sausage, hotdog and specialty sandwiches (like NY Strip Teriyaki Cheesesteak and Chop & Cheese) on island. We want to provide our customers with a relaxing experience, great service, fresh food and cold beverages at reasonable prices so that you come back for more.

We have something for everyone. Come find out why everyone is hanging out at The Shack!

FREDERIKSTED

Beach Side Cafe – 340-772-1266 The Beach Side Café at Sand Castle on the Beach Hotel in Frederiksted offers fresh catch seafood specials, American and local dishes with tropically-inspired cocktails and mocktails hand-crafted from local juices, along with our house-made desserts on the island’s best beach for fun-in-the-sun and spectacular sunsets. Open for lunch Monday through Friday 11am - 3pm, brunch 10am - 3pm Saturday and Sunday, and

Stop & Shop Supermarket – 340-692-2771

Tap Deck Bistro & Bar. Lobster/Shrimp flatbread pizza.

dinner daily from 4:30 - 8:30pm. Visit Sand Castle on the Beach and the Beach Side Cafe for everything you’ll need to enjoy a true St. Croix experience.

Ciboné Fine Seafood – 340-719-2663

An exciting, intimate dining experience in Frederiksted’s historic Limetree Court, King Street.

Fresh, Full-Service Deli! Fresh Produce! Meats!

Wine & Spirits! We also have all your favorite ice creams! See us for your extended stays on your boat, at your hotel, BNB or just picnics. New brands, organic foods, premium products. Weekly Specials and Fresh-Daily Take-Out Menus on facebook.

Located on Centerline Road in Hannah’s Rest, near Sandy Point and Frederiksted beaches. Open 6am – 9pm EVERY DAY! Shop More For Less

Tap Deck Bar & Billiards - 340-773-5227

Located on the waterfront in front of the Frederiksted Pier, enjoy an upscale pub fare, daily chef specials, draft beer, great wine, and extensive cocktails. We offer inside air-conditioned seating, and outdoor balcony seating with a view of the Pier and amazing West End sunsets. Come for poke, flatbreads, salads, sliders, or our famous Spinach-Artichoke Dip, and stay for the inviting atmosphere and professional, fun bartenders. Daily events include Monday Trivia, Tues Karaoke, Wednesday Sushi/Poke Bowl Night, Thursday Bingo, Friday, Award-Winning Stir-Friday, Sat Mexican Night and NFL and other sports on Sundays! Entrance on the 2nd floor, through the Six-Nine courtyard in front of the Pier! Open Mon-Fri 11am12am, Sat-Sun 3pm-12am.

MID-ISLAND

Chef Ozzie’s Kitchen – 340-422-6382

Looking for something affordable and quick? Look no further! Chef Ozzie Kitchen offers casual breakfast sandwiches, featuring local produce from our farmers market on island, and lunch — a Caribbean Continental Cuisine that would make your taste buds sing. Along with our chowder, a taste of New England

13th year!

25th Year!

Restaurant - Bar

Caribbean • Latin • Seafood

Open Mon & Tues, 11:30 - 6pm Open Tues - Sat, 11:30am Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, 11:30 - 9pm Kitchen closes 6pm Sun, 10:30 - 8pm Happy Hour! Thurs & Fri, 4:30 pm – 7 pm

Mid-Island, Rt. 663 30 • Februar y / March 2024

340-779-3285

Eat & Drink MID-ISLAND

in the heart of Christiansted, there’s an electric blend of world cuisines. Of course, we do catering for all occasions, pour local drinks, and more. Located inside Thomas Bakery near Sunny Isle. Open Mon-Fri, 6:30am-10:30am for breakfast, and 11am-4pm for lunch. Menu on FB, Chef Ozzie Catering.

the Roebuck Industrial Park just up the highway from the airport. Leatherback brews and cans four styles year-round and releases a rotating series of Limited Releases. Many of the styles feature local ingredients. The Tasting Room serves a selection of pizzas, wraps, salads and appetizers and features an indoor and outdoor bar with a family-friendly atmosphere. Our second location is on St. Thomas and you can also find our beers in cans and on draft in local stores and restaurants. www.leatherbackbrewing.com, FB

El Flamboyant – 340-779-3285

“People like coming here,” says owner Yvonne Villegas.

“I learned to cook from my mother who had a restaurant in Puerto Rico for many years and now its my turn to cook and serve these coveted family recipes!”

This colorful, family restaurant offers up a Caribbean, Latin, and Seafood menu that has been pleasing patrons for over 20 years. If you like fresh fish, lobster, conch, and shrimp, or chicken, steaks, and pork chops, you must try the way they do it at here! Happy Hour tradition on Thursday and Friday nights is to stop for a drink then take shish-kabobs home from the driveup booth! Located between Centerline Road and the Highway on Route #663 and open Tuesday – Saturday, 11:30am. Kitchen closes at 6pm.

Leatherback Brewing Company – 340-772-2337

Leatherback Brewing Company proudly produces

The Market STX – 340-719-1870 VI Food Tours. Navigate Christiansted with ease while tasing authentic Crucian cuisine!

authentic Virgin Islands craft beer with uniquely Caribbean grown ingredients and influences alongside traditional beer styles. We aim to build the community and culture around well-crafted beer and to celebrate and steward our Caribbean life! Leatherback’s flagship location, the St. Croix Brewery and Tasting Room, is located in

The biggest, full-service supermarket on St. Croix features organic fresh local produce, imported cheeses, organic eggs, and juices. They have the finest cuts of meat prepared by their Master Butcher —USDA meats, Certified Angus meats, poultry and seafood. Pair all your favorites with wines from the largest liquor selection on island.

Catering is available from the full-service Deli and Bakery. Try the delicious Stone House Subs, pastries and desserts. Artisan breads, platters, and hot foods served daily. Now order online with curbside pickup at www.themarketvi.com. Simply Fresh!

Februar y / March 2024 • 31

Eat & Drink MID-ISLAND / NORTHSHORE

Monday – Friday. Saturday brunch from 10am2pm. Tours of the distillery are also available, please call to learn more. Find complete menu on Facebook or our website. Come experience island vibes, island character, island flavor, and island rhythm. www.sionfarmdistillery.com

La Reine Chicken Shack – 340-718-5717

Virgin Islands Food Tours – 866-498-3684

The Landing. Tuna Poke Bowl.

Sion Farm Distillery - 340-690-9322

spirit distilled, bottled, and distributed on St Croix.

Better Cocktails. Better Planet. Our family-friendly, Distillery offers complimentary tours, flight tastings, a chef created menu, full service, distillery view bar, merchandise, micro batch releases, and more! Open 11:30am-7:30pm with Happy Hour from 4-5:55pm,

Ch ef

Located in the iconic Island Dairies Building in Sion Farm, halfway between downtown Chris tiansted and the airport, you will find our renovated, air-conditioned, bright blue Sion Farm Distillery.

Come enjoy the Caribbean’s first and finest Island Vodka®, MUTINY Island Vodka®, hand crafted from breadfruit. MUTINY Island Vodka® is the only

Virgin Islands Food Tours transforms visitors into locals! The Taste of Twin City Food Tour is a guided food tasting & cultural walking tour in downtown Christiansted that allows guests to enjoy six exclusive tastings of authentic local cuisine.

Learn about the island’s seven-flag colonial history, its Danish architectural influence and taste the flavors that make St. Croix a unique place. Our knowledgeable guides will show you how to navigate Christiansted with ease as we captivate your hearts and bellies with authentic Crucian cuisine.

The newest tour –Christiansted Sip & Savor Mixology Class – is a 90-minute experience where guests are led by a local drink expert on how to shake, stir and sip like a pro! Enjoy 3 handcrafted cocktails, light bites, and much more on this fun-filled tour.

d James wal Os

Ca r

Serving the Community for 20 years!

Mouth-W g Mouth-Waterin atering

Open-Pit BBQ Chicken Roast Pork Ribs • Steak Local Seafood

Catering for All Occasions!

Newly Renovated with Full Bar

Try our “Cruzan Confusion!”

Open OpenMonday-Saturday 7 Days a Week!

Breakfast Dinner Breakfast •• Lunch Lunch • Dinner Rt. 75 off Centerline Road

Eat EatInIn ororTake Take Out Out •• 340-778-5717 340-778-5717 32 • Februar y / March 2024

lC ui s ine

Serving the Community for 20 years! Are you ready to savor one of St. Croix’s best- kept secrets? Taste La Reine Chicken Shack’s mouth-watering BBQ chickens, slowly-cooked on wood-chip coal over an open pit! Get in line! Other menu favorites include Roast Pork, Ribs, Steak, Local Seafood, daily specials and many other island delicacies. Come mingle with our friendly staff and local patrons in our recently renovated outdoor seating area. Enjoy one of our most popular drinks “Cruzan Confusion” at our full bar. Located mid-island on Route #75, off Centerline Road, we’re open Mon, Tues, Wed, 10:30am-6pm Thurs, Fri, Sat, 10am-8pm. Eat in or Take Out! Daily menu on facebook.

a ibb ean C tinent on

Breakfast & Lunch Local drinks!

Take-Out Only Mon-Fri 6:30am – 4pm Menu on Facebook, Chef Ozzie Catering Inside Thomas Bakery, Sunny Isle 340-422-6382 Catering for all occasions!

Try our mouth-watering salmon chowder!

Eat & Drink NORTHSHORE

cated at Carambola Beach Resort. Local favorite cocktails to choose from along with tasty “Bola” burgers, pizzas, tacos, wings, and nightly specials. Make sure to try a shot of the locally crafted Carambola Moonshine made from the Carambola Starfruit! Open for lunch and dinner 11am to 10pm. www.marriott.com/stxbr

The Landing Beach Bar @ Cane Bay – 340-718-0362

Leatherback Brewing Co. Brewed on St. Croix; refreshing anytime!

NORTHSHORE

Flamboyant Bar & Grill @ Carambola Beach Resort – 340-778-3800

With waves lapping at the shore and views as far as the eye can see, one can always find a delicious meal to complement the ambiance at the Flamboyant Grill lo-

With a focus on promoting exceptional local beer while embracing and celebrating the community, the restaurant boasts a rotating selection of fresh Leatherback Brewing beers on tap and in cans along with classic island cocktails. The food menu features many favorites along with local specials made with quality ingredients sourced from farmers, bakers, and fishermen located right here on the island. Happy Hour runs from 4pm-6pm daily, and brunch, which starts at 10am every Sunday, is a must.

Reservations and large parties are welcome. Cane Bay is a day-trip destination where you can bring the whole family. Pull up a seat, grab a drink, and take in the natural beauty of the island. www.thelandingbeachbar.com

Saman Restaurant @ Carambola Beach Resort – 340-778-3800

Fine dining with breathtaking views at Carambola Beach

Saman Restaurant. Fine dining; outdoor terrace; spectacular views!

Resort. Enjoy regional favorites as well as a modern flair on classical dishes. By using locally sourced St. Croix, and the property’s own ingredients, one can always count on the freshest of dining options. Breakfast, 7-10:30am daily, Dinner, Friday – Sunday, 5:30-9:30pm. Opentable.com for reservations.

ONLINE GROCERY SHOPPING MADE EASY! Our convenient online ordering & curbside pickup will help you simplify your shopping experience.

Februar y / March 2024 • 33

Eat & Drink TELL ME WHERE TO EAT!

Easy Dining Guide Local area code is (340)

Cuisine

Meals

Credit Cards

Res.

Location

Beach Side Café @ Sand Castle on the Beach

772-1266

American / Local / Seafood / Waterfront

L, D, BR

AE, MC, V

Yes

Frederiksted

Breakers Roar Tiki Bar @ The King Christian Hotel

773-6330

Hand-Crafted Tiki Cocktails & Small Plates

D

AE, D, MC, V

No

Christiansted

BREW STX

719-6339

Sandwiches / Smoked Wings / BYO Salads

L, D

MC, V, D

No

Christiansted

Chef Ozzie’s Kitchen

422-6382

Sandwiches/Caribbean/Continental

B,L

D, MC, V

No

Mid-Island

Ciboné

719-2663

Farm / Sea-to-Table

D, BR

MC, V

Yes

Frederiksted

Cream & Co. @ The King Christian Hotel

773-6330

Ice Cream/Milkshakes/Floats

N/A

AE, D, MC, V

No

Christiansted

Cruzan Bayou Bistro

813-495-3244

Southern Cajun Creole/Carib Vegetarian

B, L, D

All Cards

No

Christiansted

Duggan’s Reef

773-9800

Seafood / Steakhouse

D, BR

MC, V

Yes

East End

East End Bar @ Grapetree Bay Hotel & Villas

249-0700

Pizza/Salads/Sandwiches

D

AE, D, MC, V

No

East End

El Flamboyant

779-3285

Latin / Seafood / Caribbean

L, D, BR

None

No

Mid Island

Opentable.com

Authentic Mexican

BR & D

AE, D, MC, V

Yes

Christiansted

Far East Restaurant @ Grapetree Bay Hotel & Villas

249-0700

Japanese Inspired Steak House

D

AE, D, MC, V

Yes

East End

Flamboyant Bar & Grill @ Carambola Beach Resort

340-778-3800

American/Local/Grill/Cocktails

L, D

All Cards

No

Northshore

Goat Soup & Whiskey

773-3333

Casual/Fine/Continental

L, D, BR

MC, V

Yes

East End

La Reine Chicken Shack

778-5717

Open Pit BBQ / Seafood

B, L, D

ATM

No

Mid Island

Leatherback Brewing Company

772-BEER (2337)

Pizza/Wraps/Salads

L, D

D, MC, V

No

Mid-Island

Maria’s Cantina & Sports Bar

713-0222

Authentic Mexican

L, D

AE, MC, V

No

Gallows Bay

Nates Boathouse Restaurant

692-6283

Seafood / World Cuisine

B, L, D, BR

D, MC, V

Yes

Christiansted

OpenTable.com

Fine Dining/Seafood/Steaks/Wine

D, BR

All Cards

Yes

Northshore

Seaside Market & Deli

719-9393

Gourmet /Salad Bar/ Prime Meats

B, L, D

AE, D, MC, V

No

Gallows Bay

Sea Terrace @ Grapetree Bay Hotel & Villas

249-0700

Sandwiches/Salads/World Cuisine/Cocktails

L, BR

AE, D, MC, V

No

East End

Shupe’s on the Boardwalk

773-3400

Burgers / Wings / Ice Cream

L, D

MC, V, D

No

Christiansted

Sion Farm Distillery/MUTINY Island Vodka

690-9322

Craft Cocktails and Eats

L, D

AE, D, MC, V

No

Mid-Island

Tap Deck Bistro & Bar

773-5227

Upscale Menu / Draft Beer / Wine-Cocktails

L, D

D, MC, V

No

Frederiksted

The Courtyard Juices & Fitness Center

773-7728

Juices / Smoothies / Healthy Food

B, L

D, MC, V

No

Christiansted

The Landing Beach Bar @ Cane Bay

718-0369

Grill / Seafood / Caribbean / Waterfront

B, L, D

MC, V, D

No

Northshore

The Market VI

719-1870

Full-Service Supermarket / Catering

B, L, D

AE, MC, V

No

Mid-Island

The Mermaid @ The Buccanneer

712-2100

Burgers/Salads/Fish

L, D

AE, D, MC, V

Yes

East End

The Mill Boardwalk Bar Brick Oven Pizza

643-6455

Brick oven pizza / Waterfront

L, D

AE, D, MC, V, Debit

No

Christiansted

Sandwiches/Full Bar/Casual

BR, L, D

All Cards

No

East End

D

AE, D, MC, V

Yes

East End

All Cards

No

Christiansted

Restaurant

El Leon @ The King Christian Hotel

Saman Restaurant @ Carambola Beach Resort

The Sausage Shack The Terrace @ The Buccaneer

712-2100

Seafood/Steak/Continental

Velvet Haze Lounge

474-4328

Hookah / Cigars / Cocktails

Virgin Islands Coffee Roasters @ The King Christian Hotel

773-6330

Coffee/Smoothies/Pastries

B, L

AE, D, MC, V

No

Christiansted

Z Café

713-2233

Fresh / Flavorful/ Friendly

B,L

MC, V

Yes

Christiansted

34 • Februar y / March 2024

Eat & Drink

NORTHSHORE / AROUND THE ISLAND

LOCAL FARM STANDS Farm offerings vary seasonally due to climate. Call ahead/check online for changes in schedules.

about our Pop-Up stands. www.artfarmllc.com Crescent Farm, VI - 340-277-0707 Sat-Sun, 11am – 3pm or by appointment.

Solar-powered, organic farm. Seasonal fruits & vegetables. Facebook La Reine Farmers Market – 340-778-0998 Sat, 6:30 am – 11 am New Location. VI Dept of Agriculture Ag Station, East Building, on Rt. 669. Vegetables, fruits, plants, and trees.

Ridge2Reef – 340-473-1557 Fresh, wholesome, USDA certified organic fruits, veggies, meats. Two markets: Inside Lawaetz Museum, Wed & Sat, 11am-3pm; Leatherback Brewing, Sat, 12-3pm. Facebook.

Artfarm, LLC. Heirloom tomatoes.

ARTfarm, LLC – 340-514-4873 Sign up on our website for email announcements

Sejah Farm VI – 340-277-6046 or 277-9392 Mon – Fri, 10 am – 5 pm, Sat, 7 am – 5 pm Dale and Yvette Browne offer livestock, eggs, & organically grown vegetables.

Delightful Dining,

La Reine Farmers Market. Crisp local Cucs!

www.sejahfarm.com. Accepts credit cards.

Southgate Corner Farmer’s Market – 404-310-8278 Sat, 9am – Noon. Fresh & preserved fruit, local honey, unrefrigerated eggs, goat cheese, plants, handmade soaps. FB

Rediscovered.

Culinary delights paired with breathtaking views, located at Carambola Beach Resort.

Saman Restaurant

Perched above sparkling ocean waters and steps from the beach, fine dining, warm ambience, and innovative fare capture the spirit of the island.

Make a Reservation

Flamboyant Bar And Grill

Enjoy the vibrant, tropical flavors of the Caribbean with specialty cocktails and dishes from our casual, open-air Flamboyant Restaurant and bar.

Estate Davis Bay, St. Croix, US Virgin Islands, 00850

Februar y / March 2024 • 35

Local Art COVER STORIES

FEB 24

W

‘Denis Sullivan’

MAR 24

Christian Vium

B

orld Ocean School has returned for its 18th season in St. Croix and is welcoming the public and students to come sailing on schooner Denis Sullivan for the winter. As an educational non-profit, World Ocean School exists to provide students of all backgrounds with immersive opportunities to learn to care for themselves, their crew, and their ship, becoming vessels of change in the world they inherit.

orn in 1980 in Aarhus, Denmark and based in Copenhagen, Christian Vium, emplaced at the intersection between social science and visual art, works primarily on long-term comparative projects based on recurrent fieldwork grounded in participatory, collaborative and experimental approaches.

The Boston-based organization had previously been coming to the U.S. Virgin Islands aboard the National Historic Landmark Roseway for several years, but she is currently awaiting a major preservation project at the Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic, CT. World Ocean School acquired Denis Sullivan from Discovery World Science and Technology Museum in Milwaukee, WI, in September 2022 and sailed into St. Croix for the first time in December 2022.

In addition to the publication of scientific work, he has exhibited his research-based work in Amsterdam, Aomori, Athens, Berlin, Brussels, Copenhagen, London, Madrid, New York, Paris, San Francisco, Stockholm, Taiwan, and Tokyo. He regularly lectures and gives workshops and masterclasses in addition to teaching PhD, graduate, and under-graduate students at university. His work is held in public and private collections.

A sunset sail.

WOS Last season, from December through April, the organization hosted 238 Crucian students for multi-day programming and welcomed over 1,500 passengers for sunset and harbor sails in Christiansted Harbor. These two-hour sails allow passengers to help raise the sails or relax and enjoy the beautiful views of St. Croix.

His solo exhibition, “Ephemeral Archjipelago (Reframing History I)” runs from February 17 through March 16 at the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts in Frederiksted. The aim of the exhibition is to recontextualize and challenge dominant historical stereotypes, inviting local audiences to reconsider the status of local histories and their importance, while at the same time investigating the dynamic entanglements of local and Danish histories over time.

With a particular emphasis on experimental and multimodal methodologies, his work covers six continents and engages a range of topics, such as nomadism, irregular migration, rural-urban linkages, urbanisation, colonial histories, indigenous cosmologies, and youth culture.

During education programs, 5th-6th grade students from St. Croix public schools sail Denis Sullivan with our deckhand educators over the course of five days. Students learn how to take care of a wooden ship and raise the sails, all while participating in team-building exercises Learning how to sail.

WOS and seeing academics come to life. While on board, students take part in lessons on subjects ranging from water quality and buoyancy to sea poetry and maritime history. Every day of the program focuses on one of World Ocean School’s community values: teamwork, trust, communication, and self-worth. Students get the chance to climb aloft to the top of the masts and explore what’s hidden below deck as they learn about the skills that go into sailing a vessel like Denis Sullivan.

World Ocean School will continue to offer educational and public sails out of Gallows Bay throughout March 2024.

Although the ship heads north for the summer months, Crucian students are always encouraged to come aboard for programming.

Visit www.worldoceanschool.org to Setting the sails. learn more about opportunities to come sailing! — Ashley Kelly & Madeleine Sandler 36 • Februar y / March 2024

WOS

“Ephemeral Archipelago” is based on Christian Vium’s two research stays in St. Croix (2018-19 and 2022), where he repatriated archives from Denmark to the US Virgin Islands, collaborating closely with local families in analyzing and reframing this material in dialogue with their own private archives.

This exhibition contributes nuances and shares the voices of the people who live here. Vium collaborates with families with a long island heritage. Their unique personal archives showcase aspects of everyday life on St. Croix since the turn of the last century.

The exhibition brings a new perspective to historical archives previously only available in Denmark to a local audience.

Christian Vium holds a double MsC in social anthropology and human rights, and a PhD in social anthropology and is currently employed as Associate Professor in Visual and Multimodal Anthropology at Aarhus University, Denmark, where he coordinates the MsC track in visual anthropology.

Local Art

ISLAND LIFE THROUGH ART & CRAFTS! Cane Roots Art Gallery – 340-718-4929 “I began collecting art in 1981 and still am collecting and it’s manifested itself into Cane Roots Art Gallery, the blue building at 24 Company Street,” says owner Sonia Deane.

“There is a renaissance of the artist community here and I am excited to be a part of it. Legacy solo exhibit by Tien Jameson continues through Feb 15 and VI Contemporary opens March 15.We hope to serve as an assemblage of artists and a convergence of ideas. I look forward to sharing it with you, bringing art into to your home, and experiencing the transformation.” Open Tues-Fri, 10am-5pm, Sat, 12-4pm or by appointment. www.canerootsartgallery.com Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts – 340-772-2622 Our mission is to preserve, promote and exhibit the arts of St. Croix and the Caribbean community, to provide an interactive environment that encourages children, youth and adults to learn positive forms of expression, and to offer creative learning experiences which foster an understanding of the rich cultural and artistic traditions of the Caribbean, and their source. Housed in an 18th-century Danish townhouse. Artist-in-Residence program. Come visit and join us! www.cmcarts.org, Facebook.

Christa’s Art Gallery – 340-713-9959 Christa-Ann Davis Molloy was a St. Croix This Week cover artist in February and March of 2017 and since then, opened a gallery in La Grande Princesse and now on Company Street in Christiansted.

Born in Trinidad, West Indies, she began an interest in art and design by the age of 11, encouraged by her Mom, her sister, her sons, and friends. She loves to paint portraits, old buildings, quadrille dancers, mocko jumbies, Caribbean scenes, and events. Lots of these images are incorporated into products at her gallery. Come see her umbrellas, shower curtains, coasters, rugs, cushions, mugs, tee shirts, face masks, and cultural coloring books. Sign up for art classes and Sip and Paint events. Open Mon – Fri, 11am – 5:30pm; Sat, 10:30am – 4pm. Company Street. www.christaart.com. FB, IG Henle Fine Art – 340-332-1628 Now at the new home of FantaSea Jewelry Studio and Gallery, this historic loft on Company Street in Christiansted continues to showcase the paintings and prints of Maria Henle, the photographs of St. Croix’s premier photographer Fritz Henle and the photography of Tina Henle. HenleGallery.com Mitchell-Larsen Studio – 340-719-1000 This is home to the artistry in glass of Jan Mitchell and the evocative photographic artworks of Steffen Larsen. Watch glass work in progress and shop for gifts in a restored historic building on Company Street, the heart of Christiansted’s SOHO (South of Hospital Street) district where the arts are alive! www.mitchelllarsenstudio.com

Cane Roots Art Gallery. Tien Jameson Exhibit through February 16.

Tues - Fri 12 - 5pm • Sat 12 - 4pm Or By Appointment 24 Company Street / Christiansted canerootsartgallery.com canerootsartgallery@gmail.com

340 -718 -4929

be INSPIRED! Experience the Art & Culture of the Caribbean

TUES - SAT 9am-4pm 10 Strand St. Frederiksted

cmcarts.org

Februar y / March 2024 • 37

Local Art

CULTURE ENCOUNTERS! YOUTH ART MONTH (YAM) EXHIBIT “Dream in Art" Opens March 9

Christa’s Art Gallery. A wide selection of items carrying the festive, colorful artwork of Christa-Ann Davis Molloy! Here, a fun, useful carryall clutch!

Ted Davis Galeria - 310-860-6001 (toll free!)

After almost a decade in Christiansted, D&D Studio is now online! Visit us at https://ddstudio.smugmug.com/Travel/StCroixPhotos to purchase beautiful and collectable photographs

by Ted Davis. These stunning images are unique St. Croix artworks, and are great additions to your home or office decor. You can have a piece of St. Croix delivered right to your door! Call or email for more details. info@ddstudio.us

This year marks the 62nd anniversary of YOUTH ART MONTH (YAM) started by The Arts and Creative Artists’ Institute (ACM) who then created The Council for Arts in Education (CFAE) to head up YAM as a platform to advocate for the Visual Arts in Education as a national program.

Niarus Walker, a Visual Arts Teacher at Central High School was able to establish the local YAM VI in 2006 and the month of March was proclaimed Youth Art Month in the Virgin Islands in 2007.

Maria Stiles has been a remarkable assistant and supporter of the program from the start and recently took on a facilitator role with the program.

This year’s theme is “Dream in Art,” with an art show opening slated for March 9, from 5-9pm at Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism (C.H.A.N.T.), Frederiksted. Maria is looking forward to the submitted images being magical and hopeful for a better future.

Beautiful St. Croix photographs delivered right to your home!

Celebrating Art & Culture Paintings - Prints - Tees - Totes - Rugs - Coasters - Mugs Umbrellas - Pillows - Shower Curtains - Great Gifts

‘Sip & Paint’ Events - Art Classes 57 Company Street 340-713-9959 340-513-8581 www.christaart.com

HENLE FINE ART HENLE FINE ART

At At FantaSea FantaSea FantaSea JewelryAt Studio and Gallery Jewelry Studio and Gallery Jewelry Studio and Gallery 55 Company Street

55 Company Street 55 Company Street 340-332-1628 HenleGallery.com 340-332-1628 HenleGallery.com 340-332-1628 HenleGallery.com 38 • Februar y / March 2024

Visit www.ddstudio.smugmug.com/Travel/StCroix or call us at 310.861.6001 for more details!

“The Drama Class at St. Croix Educational Complex will complete dramatic skits and PSAs to be shared on the radio throughout the month that speak to the importance of the arts in education. Plus informative packets will go out to all Art Teachers here describing how they can celebrate YAM at their schools," Maria said.

“A workshop on the Business of Art 101 will be coordinated and filmed for Young Artists on Saturday, March 16.,” she continued. “The recording will then be available as a resource to art educators to share during the school day throughout the territory.”

Art work here is created by Niarus Walker’s students from Central High School. Top: Rose, Black Hand, Azia Claxton. Below: Peace Sign, Akira Benoit and Pollution Shark, Kamui Nieves and Shamir Greenidge.

“I like them all,” says Maria. “Peace Sign because it’s also VI History Month, Pollution Shark because it speaks to our present environmental crisis, and Rose, Black Hand because this one really looks like a dream, magical and hopeful for a better future…, my best reflective of the theme, “Dream in Art,” in my opinion.” www.councilforarteducation.org/youth-art-month

Our Danish Connection The Scandinavian country of Denmark was among the European contenders for ownership of Caribbean islands and acquired St. Thomas in 1660, St. John in 1718, and St. Croix, purchased from France in 1733. (See page 48 for historical details.)

Denmark left its mark here in many ways that have contributed to a close relationship between Danes and the U.S. Virgin Islands following the 1917 Transfer, bringing thousands of Danish visitors. Examples of this closeness are: • The handsome, still functioning 18th and 19th century architecture – official, commercial and private, built of Danish brick brought as ship ballast.

• Ruins of many plantation structures that once produced sugar and rum, particularly former windmills that ground sugar cane.

• The presence of four churches of the Danish Lutheran denomination, with special sections for Danish gravesites in two old cemeteries.

• Many African heritage and mixed blood families carrying Danish last names, even the use of historic Danish first names for Crucian children.

• A Friends of Denmark organization that enjoys exchange-visit festivals with its sister society in Denmark, the Danish West Indian Society.

• Access on the internet to over 5 million documents in the Danish archives relevant to the Danish West Indies, as our islands were called.

• A friendly Crucian population that welcomes and looks out for visiting Danes.

If you happen to be a visiting Dane, we bid you Velkommen!

70

illustrated articles from the pages of this magazine, 2009-2019, documenting in English and Danish the legacy of Denmark’s imprint on our culture. Undercover Books and Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts, $20.

A DANISH LEGACY IS HONORED IN A NOVEL USAGE by Nina York

A

striking example of the interesting use of a building material, imported since nearly 300 years ago from far away, is the Danish brick clearly visible on the structure and courtyard floor of the first building started after the Danish acquisition of St. Croix in 1733. Fort Christiansvaern was built to defend the planned town of Christiansted in an ideal spot, defended by Long Reef except for a narrow channel that could easily be monitored within the range of cannon defense.

The fort’s history, of being constructed by enslaved workers brought here from St. John following the great slave revolt there, speaks to the skill of these men.

The construction was interrupted by hurricanes but also the need for more bricks. A clever idea of using bricks as ballast for ships sent here from Danish ports, especially in the southern Jutland area, provided this island with a durable construction material far superior to wooden resources. On the trip back to Denmark ships carried a full cargo of sugar and rum, even hardwood planks, all bringing lots of revenue from the sale of what were then highly valuable commodities.

A plaque states in Spanish, English and Danish the gratitude for this important service. The Spanish version speaks to Zielke’s youth spent in Mexico as well as the many local workers originating in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.

Zielke also shows a whimsical touch,

As the sugar trade increased, the brick shipments multiplied. The central section of today’s Government House was built of Danish brick already in 1747 as a residence for the head of the Danish West Indies and Guinea Company. As the town and its prosperity grew, more and more brick structures were erected, many adhering to a harmonious architectural style of ground floor arches that allowed shade and an upper story known as the gallery.

Over the years, the durability of these handsome buildings has been proven, even an 1867 tsunami did not destroy them. But while we can find old brick ruins, new brick is a different story. But we now have an investor cum architect cum inventor, Peter Zielke, who has undertaken the formidable task of transforming a major part of Christiansted’s Hospital Street from ruins to habitable handsome residential and commercial properties by his Z Property business.

His re-use of shaved brick split in half retains, when installed, the handsome appearance of traditional brick. Several improvements are visible, such as new outdoor restaurant Bahia and brick walls.

Our April 2022 issue mentioned Zielke’s future plans, now approved, for the area that even includes a hotel and yacht club behind the brick-clad former Outrigger Restaurant that will become a gym and community center. At that building, based on Zielke’s design, a new bronze life-like statue by Chinese ancestry sculptor Guangquan Zhao of a bricklayer on a ladder at work is honoring the bricklayer for his many years of contribution.

installing on one of the restored walls a pair of large, black angel wings, ready for any happy visitor to pose with.

We owe many thanks to Peter Zielke for his gift to St. Croix.

It seems so appropriate that, right across the street from the former Outrigger, an earlier idea is coming to reality of converting the former Danish military barracks and hospital into a complimentary purpose. Having served in more recent times as police station, as a public high school, and offices of the VI Department of Education, it will now become a training school for the rehabilitation of historic properties under the aegis of a public/ private initiative known as Virgin Islands Architectural Center (VIAC) that, on a Danish initiative, got the ball rolling for training local youth in preserving our valuable architectural legacy.

Nina York, born in Denmark but a St. Croix resident since 1976, has been a contributor to this publication since 2009 and was its editor from 1990 -2003. She offers guidance to visitors from Denmark and the mainland, does translations, and sells her books, historic maps and print reproductions. ninayork@gmail.com

Februar y / March 2024 • 39

Watersports

BUCK ISLAND EXCURSIONS, SUNSET SAILS & PRIVATE CHARTERS BUCK ISLAND, SUNSET SAILS & PRIVATE CHARTERS Big Beard’s Adventure Tours – 340-773-4482

Buck Island Charters. Arriving for a day of fun on Teroro II!

Ted Davis

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Come with us to Buck Island Reef National Monument and enjoy one of the finest marine gardens in the Caribbean! Choose a relaxing full-day excursion aboard the sailing catamaran Renegade, with famous beach BBQ, or enjoy the beach and snorkeling on a fun half-day trip aboard our power catamaran Adventure. Experience one of our Sunset Sails; a beautiful time to be out on the water!

For the ultimate St. Croix experience, all our boats are available for private charters for weddings or large groups. Gift Certificates available. Give someone the gift of an experience they will always remember. Located on the Christiansted boardwalk; retail store. Authorized National Park Service Concessioner. www.bigbeards.com, Find us on Facebook and Instagram

Down South Charters – 340-474-7093

Buck Island Charters

Teroro II & Dragonfly

with Captain Carl or Captain Heinz

SAIL • SNORKEL • HIKE

Sail aboard Teroro II (42’) or Dragonfly (38’) Trimarans and experience a personalized tour of Buck Island Reef National Monument.

The National Underwater Trail is a snorkel sight second to none!

Authorized Concessioner

● Snorkle Snorkel equipment equipmentincluded included ● Dragonfly Dragonflyexclusive exclusiveto to10 sixguests guests ● Departs from Green Cay Marina “H” Dock

Recommended in Frommer’s Tour Guide

www.gotostcroix.com/heinz

(340) 718-3161 • teroro@msn.com 40 • Februar y / March 2024

Get ready to make some unforgettable memories!! Whether your ideal day includes fishing, snorkeling, sightseeing, crossing over to St. Thomas/ St. John, or a relaxing sunset cruise, we do it all! Join us aboard our beautifully appointed 36’ yellowfin “Love Alone”. She is certified and licensed to carry 12 guests aboard, so we have plenty of room for your whole crew. All necessary gear is supplied so just bring your smiling faces.

We offer 4, 6, 8, and 10 hour private charters to fit your needs. Availability and online booking @ www.downsouthstx.com Give us a call with any questions. See you on the water!

Llewellyn’s Charter – 340-773-9027

Take a fast and exciting sail with local sailing legend and calypso recording artist Llewellyn Westerman aboard his 37-foot locally-designed and built, six-passenger performance trimaran Charis+. He’s been sailing to Buck Island National Monument since 1960 and assures a comfortable arrival to the beach or the first designated underwater National Park. Snorkel gear is provided. Departs from the St. Croix Yacht Club at Teague Bay 9 to 1:00 am, 1:30 to 5:30 pm, and 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Personalized sails available. Call for more information and reservations

Lyric Sails – 340-201-5227

Experience the magic of Frederiksted sailing onboard the custom-built 63ft historic racing catamaran, Jolly Mon! On our signature live

Watersports

STEAL SOME TIME AND GET IN THE WATER! SCUBA Diving Magazine - 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards

I

BEST SHORE DIVING & BEST WALL DIVING

magine, your dive gear is in place, you stroll across the beach into the Caribbean Sea and after a short surface swim you descend into an aquarium of marine life. You are diving the world-famous St. Croix Wall. Reef sharks, sea turtles and tropical fish are common. The coral is beautiful and the marine life overwhelming! Welcome to St. Croix shore diving and to Sweet Bottom Dive Center!

We have two breathtaking North Shore locations.

At Cane Bay, behind the Landing Beach Bar, our new 2,200 sq. ft. dive center boasts a spacious retail area, high tech, A/C classroom, the latest rental equipment from Aqua Lung and Apeks, dehumidified guest storage area, repair center, state-of-the-art air fill/gas blending center, wash tubs for cleaning gear, outdoor, fresh water showers and restrooms. Our second location is at Carambola Beach Resort, with similar amenities plus swimming pool, restaurants and beautiful Davis Bay Beach!

As a PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Center and

Come join me for a dive!

PADI Tec Rec Center, we offer a variety of activities. The Discover Scuba Program, for first-time scuba divers, will see you diving over a shallow reef, face to face with marine life in no time. A local dive guide can show you all of the cool stuff and provide the navigating for you as our staff frequents incredible dive sites

daily. Interested in completing a certification course or improve your skills? We offer dozens of classes. How about a cool hobby or a career change? Become a dive professional! Our award-winning staff can assist you in earning your Divemaster, Instructor, or Specialty Instructor ratings. Want to rent scuba or snorkeling equipment? Need an Air, Enriched Air/Nitrox or Trimix fill? Equipment need servicing? We can assist you!.

Sweet Bottom Dive Center was founded on the philosophy of Safety, Quality Education, and Customer Service. Safety is paramount in everything we do.

Our staff provides a flexible, concierge dive service that takes your diving adventures seriously. They are mature, highly trained, experienced and motivated to ensure that you have FUN at any of the Wall dive sites, the Frederiksted Pier, and anywhere else you may dive!

Sweet Bottom Dive Center (340) 773-DIVE (3483) www.SweetBottomDive.com

Sail to Buck Island Reef National Monument on Departing Teague Bay 9:00 am - 1:00 pm 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Authorized Concessioner

100% sail powered 6 passenger custom built 37’ trimaran

Llewellyn’s Charter 340-773-9027

Februar y / March 2024 • 41

Watersports

TAKE THE PLUNGE—MAKE SOME MEMORIES! away from the crowds? Book a private day sail! Sail, snorkel, swim and relax in the always calm waters of the West while being taken care of by our professional crew! Private evening sails are also available by request.

Sunset Sails sail Wed-Sun, private day sails are available daily. See our music schedule and book online, lyricsails.com

Teroro II and Dragonfly – 340-718-3161

Down South Charters. Let’s go fishing!

BUCK ISLAND, SUNSET SAILS & PRIVATE CHARTERS, cont.

340-773-DIVE (3483)

music sunset sail, be serenaded by local and visiting musicians as you sip on complimentary rum punch, spot turtle tracks at Sandy Point, and watch a beautiful West End sunset.

Want to explore the West End by day and stay

Buck Island Charters, with Captain Heinz and his son Carl, is one of the oldest charter boat companies sailing to Buck Island Reef National Monument. Teroro II, a 42’ trimaran, is the first commercially built boat by Gold Coast Yachts at Salt River and chartered by Captain Heinz.

Carl followed his father’s passion, after sailing and competing in his youth and after helping to captain Teroro II to Buck Island for 16 years, and now has is own boat Dragonfly, a 38’ trimaran.

He and his father love to share their local knowledge with the guests aboard and give them a very personalized snorkeling tour of Buck Island Reef. We are recommended by Fromer’s Tour Guide and sail from Green Cay Marina.

Sweet Bottom Dive Center.

SCUBA DIVING ST. CROIX, USVI

DIVE A WRECK, WALL, PIER & REEF ALL IN ONE DAY! Diving here is easy & accessible with an array of experiences. All dive boats are inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard & captains are USCG certified. Sea life is abundant & changes with the time of day & time of year. More than 500 species of fish, 40 types of coral & hundreds of invertebrates inhabit the water.

BUCK ISLAND REEF NATIONAL MONUMENT – is 6,000 feet long, a .-mile wide & includes the 176-acre island & 18,839 acres of submerged land & coral reef system.

FREDERIKSTED PIER – Macro life abounds; depths reach 50’ at the end of the pier; pilings are at 25’.

BUTLER BAY WRECKS – 5 wrecks together on St. Croix’s Northwest tip; the deepest is at 110’ & the shallowest is at 20’.

SALT RIVER CANYON – This Northshore site has two walls facing each other across a quarter mile of blue water.

CANE BAY WALL – Rated one of the top dives in all the Caribbean. Not to miss!

-The Scuba Diving Resource

2 Breathtaking Locations • Cane Bay Beach • Davis Bay Beach

Carambola Beach Resort

Classes, Shore, Boat, Wall, Pier & Night Diving Available

sweetbottomdive.com 42 • Februar y / March 2024

Nep2une Scuba Diving.

JOIN THE EXPERTS! DIVING

Dive Experience – 340-773-3307

Get to know St. Croix’s underwater wildlife— Turtles, Eels, Sting Rays, Eagle Rays, Manta Rays, Dolphins, and even Humpback Whales with St. Croix’s Original PADI 5-Star IDC Center! Michelle Pugh, a member of the Women Divers Hall of Fame, opened Dive Experience in 1983 and has the most experienced dive staff on the island. Diver safety, combined with fun and preservation of the marine environment are our primary concerns. Daily boat dives, Lionfish hunting dives—take your fillets home with you (yum!), and “No Moon” String-of-Pearl night dives! We offer diver training from the Discover Scuba program to dive instructor and complete dive and snorkel rental gear plus air and nitrox fills. New, expanded location on the Chritiansted boardwalk at Kings Alley. We love to dive and it shows! www.divexp.com

Nep2une Scuba Diving – 340-227-1915

Nep2une Scuba Diving specializes in small groups and personal service diving! We are located directly across from the Frederiksted Pier and offer 6-diver max boat dives daily with over 30 different dive sites to choose from on the calm waters of St. Croix’s west end. And we offer guided day and night dives at the famous Frederiksted Pier, as well as Private Charters.

Here at Nep2une, we want you to have the best diving experience possible! Whether you have been diving for years or this is your first dive, your safety and enjoyment are our #1 priority!

Be sure to stop by and check out our retail store for all your snorkeling, diving, beach wear and souvenir needs.

DIVE EXPERIENCE — Diving St. Croix for 40 Years Michelle Pugh, a 45-year resident of St Croix, learned to dive in Los Angeles while in high school and hasn’t stopped since!

In 1992, along with Jacques Cousteau, she was inducted into the Platinum Pro 5000 through SSI. In 2004, she was inducted into the Women Divers Hall of Fame for being the first woman to dive with killer whales in the wilds of Canada, the first American woman to teach diving in Moscow, Russia and for establishing the mooring system on St Croix to protect the coral reefs.

Michelle was also given the SBDC and Congressional Award for Entrepreneurial Success for Dive Experience.

Sam Halvorson, Captain, Instructor, Dive Master, and Videographer, has been on board for 29 years. He knows the reefs like the back of his hand. His videos are a favorite souvenir!

Michelle, who’s made over 10,000 dives on St. Croix, is the only dive center owner that actually dives most everyday—guiding lots of customers by request. While developing

the dive mooring sites, she has explored most St Croix reefs and walls. Michelle has also traveled the world just to dive—like the East coast of the US from Florida to Rhode Island, the West coast from Canada to Mexico, The Red Sea, Australia, Solomon Islands, Borneo, Philippines, the Antarctic, and most of the Caribbean Islands and the Galapagos Islands!

Dive Experience is St. Croix’s first dive operator and the first PADI 5-star IDC center.

They teach diving from novice to professional instructors. Located at Kings Alley on the boardwalk, their USCG-licensed dive boat is steps away on the boardwalk. The full-service center features basic snorkel equipment to recreational and professional dive gear from Aqualung (US Divers) plus hats, towels, tees, Trudi Gilliam fish art and the largest Reef sandal selection on island. “With years in the business and my experience over time, I can say that Dive Experience is simply the best!”

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DIVE EXPERIENCE Celebrating Celebrating Years!

3940Years!

“The Name Says it All”

2020 2023

Sweet Bottom Dive Center – 340-773-DIVE (3483)

Find us in 2 breathtaking locations. At Cane Bay Beach, in our NEW 2,200 square foot facility and at the Carambola Beach Resort at Davis Bay. We offer daily shore diving to the famous ‘Wall’ only a short distance off each of the beaches. Dive our beautiful, healthy corals to see tropical fish, turtles, rays and reef sharks or schedule a boat or pier dive.

Whether you’re interested in a Discover Scuba Diving experience or are working towards a certification, such as; Open Water, Advanced Open Water, a Specialty Course, Professional Instructor Ratings or Technical Diving, we can accommodate you. Air, Nitrox or Trimix tank fills available along with top-notch scuba and snorkeling equipment to rent. Discover why diving with Sweet Bottom Dive Center is a sweet experience! www.SweetBottomDive. com, FaceBook and Instagram.

Open: Monday-Saturday, 8 am-5 pm Sunday, 8 am-4 pm

St. Croix’s First PADI 5 Star Center Owned by Michelle Pugh,Women Diver’s Hall of Fame

Diver Training — Beginner to Instructor Dive Equipment Retail & Rentals Daily Boat DivesLion Fish Hunts Snorkel Trips

Christiansted Boardwalk at Kings Alley

Local: 340-773-3307 Toll Free: 800-235-9047 www.divexp.com

Februar y / March 2024 • 43

Watersports

LIVE THE BIO BAY EXPERIENCE! safe and fun riding. More action can be found on a Jet Ski tour to Sandy Point and Hams Bluff Lighthouse. Call or book online on our website. Spend a relaxing day on Rainbow Beach and enjoy good island food and drinks from Rhythms at the same time! www.wewatersports.com, Facebook

KAYAK TOURS

Sea Thru Kayaks VI – 340-244-8696

are helping to keep the reef healthy for future tours and generations to come. Part of all proceeds benefit reef charities on St. Croix.

Open every day, 9am-6pm. www.mermaidadventures.net, Facebook, IG

Your paddle sport Go-To on St. Croix! Located inside of Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve, providing a waterfront experience into the heart of nature and history. Experience the incredible natural phenomenon of our bioluminescent bay in our completely transparent kayaks. Your entire boat will become immersed in millions of light-emitting micro-organisms with limitless visibility of the glowing wonders around you, creating a bucket list experience unlike any other. Soak up some Vitamin D and enjoy one of our daytime tours in the Caribbean sun, creating a fun and family-friendly experience in one of our glass-bottom kayak eco or beach tours. For the more adventurous, view our rentals, from glass bottom and ocean kayaks, to soft top and transparent SUPs. Facebook, www.seathrukayaksvi.com

West End Water Sports – 340-277-8295

Virgin Kayak Tours – 340-514-0062

St. Croix Surf & SUP. Catch waves with us!

JET SKI & SEA SCOOTERS

Mermaid Adventures SeaScooter Snorkel Tours - 310-742-5015

Get ready to be propelled through the beautiful Caribbean waters on a SeaScooter snorkel tour tailored just for you. As it pulls you through the water, you conserve your swimming energy and get the most coverage of our enchanting blue waters during your snorkeling time. We are a mobile company that goes out to all the hottest snorkel locations like the Frederiksted Pier, Sandcastle, Cane Bay, and Green Cay across from Tamarind Reef. We provide high-end snorkel equipment and train you on its use before your tour time starts. We also photograph and video your entire tour. By touring with us, you

Located in Frederiksted at the popular Rainbow Beach next to Rhythms Restaurant and Bar, we offer lounge chairs, umbrellas, Jet Ski rentals or tours by appointment, and now Yamaha Sea Scooters—the perfect way to explore the world underwater! The West End has some of the calmest and clearest waters on the island.

Our beautiful swimming and snorkeling area is in front of the beach and, beyond that, the Jet Ski free ride zone is large and uncrowded for

Snorkel with ease on underwater propulsion scooters!

Proceeds benefit reef charities on St. Croix

www.mermaidadventures.com

44 • Februar y / March 2024

Mermaid Adventures. Come snorkeling!

Voted ‘Best Kayak Tour’ on St. Croix for the past eight years by the readers of the VI Daily News! Family owned and operated for 20 years, Virgin Kayak Tours offers nighttime Bioluminescent Tours, Salt River Historical Park & Ecological Preserve tours, and Custom Tours — half day, full day, or week long. They use the award-winning Hobie Mirage Pedal Kayaks, so your tour is effortless, even in windy conditions, and focus on St. Croix ecol-

Watersports

KAYAK INTO THE HEART OF NATURE & HISTORY ogy, Pre-Columbian history, and the cultural landscape. “You’ll definitely see our passion shine through on every St. Croix kayak tour!”

Located off Route #80 at Salt River Marina. www.virginkayaktours.com, Facebook, IG

SURFING

St. Croix Surf & SUP – 340-473-8150

Surfing is one of the most unique and exhilarating water sports St. Croix has to offer.

There is nothing more fun than riding your first wave. Now St. Croix has its own Surf School with local surfer Bryce Scott excited to share his 30 years of experience riding waves!

St. Croix Surf & SUP is owned and operated

by Bryce and his wife Amanda and offers 2-hour private and group lessons as well as surfboard rentals. They use the best soft-top surfboards on the market to keep you safe and have you standing up and riding in no time.

Come get stoked and ride your first wave!

Call or email to book at www.stcroixsurfandsup.com. Facebook, IG

Seathru Kayaks VI. Family fun at Salt River Historical Park & Ecological Preserve!

SURF & SUP LESSONS Kids & adults multi-lesson packages Kids and Adults Group/Private Lessons

SURF BOARD RENTALS Call or Book Online! 340.473.8150

www.stcroixsurfandsup.com

Februar y / March 2024 • 45

Beaches Public

MAKE A BIG SPLASH! All beaches in the USVI are open to the public although access through private property and hotels may have restrictions.

Buck Island Reef National Monument

The National Park Service has operated Buck Island Reef as a National Park since 1961.

Underwater trail, two beaches, two picnic areas, snorkeling, shade, hiking trail, limited facilities. Seven miles East of Christiansted; use authorized National Park Service concessionaires. www.nps.gov/BUIS

Buck Island. Ted Davis

Cane Bay Beach

On St. Croix’s Northshore, this is a long, sandy beach with shade and great snorkeling; relatively shallow and nice for swimming. Diving’s famous “Wall” is located here. Sweet Bottom Dive Center and The Landing Beach Bar to serve you!

Columbus Landing

Christopher Columbus landed here in 1493 at the site of Salt River Bay. Take the road to the left of Salt River Marina. Minimal facilities.

Managed by the Territorial State Historic Preservation Office (DPNR), and is within the boundaries of the National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve. www.nps.gov/SARI

Cane Bay Beach.

Ted Davis

Cramer Park

Before Pt. Udall, on the East End, is a beautiful long, deep beach with bathrooms, changing rooms, and picnic tables.

Dorsch Beach

On the right, just before Sandcastle on the Beach Hotel and Beach Side Café, is a wonderfully convenient beach with parking and some shade.

Frederiksted Beach.

Ted Davis

Frederiksted Beach

Right next to Ft. Frederik, it is a favorite of cruise ship passengers. Convenient parking and changing facilities.

Rainbow Beach

North of Frederiksted, this is a lively beach with bar and restaurant. West End Watersports offers Jet Ski, Sea Scooter, Kayak, and Paddle Board rentals.

Live music on Sunday afternoons. A local favorite!

Reef Beach

Right next to Duggan’s Reef Restaurant on the East End is a nice slip-of-a-beach. With a very gradual decline, the beach is perfect for windsurfing or for swimming with small children.

The Reef Golf Course is across the street.

Sandy Point.

Susan Wall

Sandy Point

Located on St. Croix’s West End, this spectacular beach is part of Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge and is one the longest in the Caribbean!

Leatherback Turtle nesting is underway now and the beach is closed to the public until the first week in September. Follow on Facebook.

Shoy Beach

Deep and lush, this beach is located inside the entrance to The Buccaneer Hotel; the guard gate attendant to the right will let you through. Park at the end of the road. No facilities; some shade trees. A 46 • Februar y / March 2024

Shoys Beach.

Al Dorsa

Golf & Tennis

Teddy Seymour He Sailed Around the World Just To Do It!

PLAY TIME!

GOLF

Tee-off at one of St. Croix’s exceptional golf courses!

Carambola Golf Club & Country Club – 340-778-5638

The Buccaneer Hotel – 340-712-2144

Steve Simonsen

www.golfcarambola.com

Kelly Greer

Open 7 days a week beginning at 7:30am.

An East End, 18-hole course that takes the player over rolling hills to the water’s edge with incredible views! Call for rates and tee times. Pro Shop. www.thebuccaneer.com

The Buccaneer Hotel courts.

Aboard his 35-foot Ericson, MK I, Alberg hull design, full keel, fiberglass boat, Love Song, Teddy Seymour circumnavigated the earth, making only 12 stops. On February 24, 1986, after years of preparation, Seymour began his sailing trip from his home port of Frederiked, St. Croix. He finished his trip exactly where he had started a year and a half later!

Born in Yonkers, New York, in 1941, Teddy was fascinated with the Hudson River from a young age, leading him to build a raft and drift down the river at the age of 13. Seymour received a track and field scholarship to Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, where he became an All American Cross Country runner, but joined the Marines after graduation and served for seven years, including in Vietnam, before resigning honorably as a Captain. After a managerial position at American Can Company in California, he graduated with a Masters in Recreation Administration from California State University.

Seymour learned to sail in Newport Beach and lived aboard a small Columbia for almost five years before purchasing Love Song.

After relocating to the Virgin Islands, where he took a job as a primary school teacher, Seymour began planning his journey. It took seven years of paying off $62,000 in bank loans for the purchase and preparation of his sailboat before Seymour left St. Croix, headed for the Panama Canal.

On June 19, 1987, 16 months after he began his world voyage, he dropped anchor back in his home harbor at Frederiksted, St. Croix, USVI, and became the first African American to complete a solo circumnavigation of the world. The Virgin Islands Legislature enacted a resolution to preserve his contribution into Virgin Islands maritime history and, since then, has been honored each year with the Toast-To-The-Captain Race on St. Croix, this year on Saturday, February 10. Details in Events Calendar.

Open 6 days a week, 7:30 am – 4 pm. Closed Mondays. Commissioned by Laurence Rockefeller, as the centerpiece of a luxury Caribbean resort complex, and designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., a beautiful, challenging par-72, 18-hole course that stretches over 7,000 yards with water hazards coming into play on 7 holes. Carambola opened in 1966 to rave reviews and was considered by the master designer himself to be

one of his finest courses. A great golfing treasure, it is the finest course in the Virgin Islands. This course is a Caribbean gem and a “must play” for any true lover of the game. Pro Shop. Clubs and cart rentals. Call for rates, specials, and tee times.

72 Estate River. www.golfcarambola.com

The Reef Golf Course – 340-773-8844

Open 7 days a week, 7am – 5pm A 9-hole course, Par 35, with a driving range. Carts and rental clubs, golf lessons, Golf Shop. Also on site, an 18-hole Disc Golf course. Rental discs available.

Pickle Ball, Tennis. Membership Rates, Greens Fees, Events, and Twilight pricing at www.reefcondosusvi.com, Facebook

TENNIS

Open to the public. Stay tournament-ready!

The Buccaneer Hotel – 340-712-2143

Open Mon – Fri, 8 - 11am and 3 - 6pm; Sat, 8 - 11am. Pro Shop open same hours as the courts.

Eight East End courts; lighted courts by appointment. Pro Shop and Game Match Service. Tennis Pro available for lessons. Call to reserve court time. www.thebuccaneer.com Februar y / March 2024 • 47

Destination St. Croix GOOD TO KNOW!

Atlantic Ocean Puerto Rico

US

Tortola BVI

St. Thomas

UK

St. John

Culebra Vieques

Christiansted

N

Caribbean Sea

Frederiksted ●

★

St. Croix

CLIMATE. Year-round temps are in the 80s during the day, 70s at night, with summer somewhat warmer. Easterly trade winds keep the humidity down. Most showers are over in minutes. Residents collect rainwater from their roof into household cisterns; saltwater distillation plants help the supply. With water scarce, it is used sparingly.

9am-1pm. Bank of St. Croix, Gallows Bay and Peter’s Rest open Mon-Th, 9am-3pm, Fri, 9am3:30pm. Oriental Bank, Sunny Isle, open MonWed, 8:30am-4:30pm, Th & Fri, 8:15am-5:30pm, Sat, 9am-1pm. See maps for locations, Pg 54-58.

GETTING HERE. Airlines flying to St. Croix are American Airlines, Cape Air, Delta Airlines, Sea Flight, Silver/Seaborne, and Spirit Airlines.

Check www.viport.com for current schedules.

No passports needed for US citizens!

HOLIDAYS. We celebrate Federal and Local holidays; the government closes for both, banks close for most, shops close on major holidays.

LOCATION/SIZE. St. Croix coordinates are 17.7246° N, 64.8348° W. We are part of the US Virgin Islands, located 90 miles East of Puerto Rico, and part of the Antilles chain from the Bahamas down to Trinidad. St. Croix is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, is 82.8 square miles, 28 miles long x 7 miles wide.

COMMUNICATIONS. We have several radio stations and three television stations. Cable and Dish TV carry the national news. There are 2 daily newspapers, The St. Croix Avis and VI Daily News (also online), and St. Croix Source for online local news.

CURRENCY & BANKING. We use the US dollar and credit cards are accepted everywhere. First Bank (all branches) open Mon-Th, 8:30am-4pm, Fri, 8:30am-5pm. Sunny Isle & Frederiksted branches, Sat, 9am-1pm. Banco Popular de Puerto Rico (BPPR) Orange Grove open Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm, Sunny Isle, Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm, Sat,

TELEPHONE/CELL PHONE. Local area code is 340 does not need to be dialed for local numbers on island. We have an AT&T Store at Sunny Isle Shopping Center, 340-778-6400 and Sprint/T Mobile Store in Peter’s Rest, 340-7130055.

TIME. We are on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), one hour earlier than EST but the same as EST during Daylight Savings.

VIRGIN ISLANDERS. Virgin Islanders are a reserved but friendly people. “Good Morning,”“Good Afternoon,” and “Good Night” are welcome Crucian greetings. Everyone speaks English or a lilting version of it.

VISITORS BUREAU. The Dept. of Tourism Office is upstairs in the Frederiksted Mall, Strand Street, Frederiksted. Open Mon-Fri and cruise ship days, 340-772-0357. A new Christiansted location opening soon.

WEDDINGS. For a romantic island getaway, tie the knot here and simplify your destination wedding! Request more info at www.visitusvi. com. Fill out and submit your Wedding Request for Proposal online.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS. Police, Fire, Ambulance from landline— 911 Police, Fire, Ambulance from cell phone— 340-772-9111 St. Croix Hospital— 340-778-6311 Diver’s Alert Network (DAN)— 919-684-9111 Emergency Alerts, Hurricane Tracking, Maps & Prep Info, www.vitema.vi.gov 340-773-2244

Sugarmill.

Ted Davis

MARINE LIFE. All native plants, animals, fish (unless harvested for food), coral and shells are protected under the Indigenous Species Act. You will not be permitted to leave the territory with any plants or marine life in your possession.

POST OFFICES. As part of the US postal system, we have six post offices located in Gallows Bay, Christiansted, Richmond, Sunny Isle Shopping Center, Kingshill, and Frederiksted.

See Maps, Pg 54-58.

St. Patrick’s Church, Frederiksted.

48 • Februar y / March 2024

Ted Davis

TAXES. No sales tax but a 12.5% government tax is applied to hotel rooms.

Jacks Bay.

Ted Davis

Staying Here GRACIOUSLY LOCAL!

U

ncrowded and unspoiled, escape to St. Croix, the largest of the US Virgin Islands, and stay awhile!

Plan your wedding, honeymoon, romantic get-away, or family vacation and stay with us. You'll find it hard to leave!

The Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort, familyowned since 1945 near Christiansted. Choose from 138 guestrooms, with private balconies or patios & 4 restaurants. Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, practice your swing on the golf or tennis courts, or take a dip in one of 2 pools. www. thebuccaneer.com Caribbean Breeze Apartments & Vacation Rentals, a gated, historic Frederiksted property near beaches/pier/shopping/dining. 6 units, studios or 1-bedrooms. Charming 1/2-acre garden, BBQ/kitchen, pool. Owners on property. www. airbnb.com/rooms/2989620.

Carambola Beach Resort at secluded Estate Davis Bay, is a get-away like no other. Lush surroundings, cozy, private villas, breathtaking ocean views.

A storied property, once owned by Laurence

Rockefeller. Beautiful pool, private beach, dining & drinks in 2 restaurants. Dive shop. Mariott.com/stxbr

Grapetree Bay Hotel & Villas, a newly-renovated & restored beachfront “1960s” boutique hotel.

Charming and family-friendly. 2 restaurants, 2 bars, pool, hiking rails, snorkeling. 18 large, oceanfront rooms. Art murals by Barbara Gelardi. www. grapetreebayhotel.com Holger Danske Hotel, on the Christiansted Harbor Boardwalk, boasts a fresh water pool & a ferry ride to the beach on Protestant Cay. 42 rooms.

Large balconies, Wi-fi, restaurant, large pool deck.

Charming & convenient! www.holger-hotel.com

Carambola Beach Resort.

Club Comanche, Hotel St. Croix, a landmark hotel within the Christiansted National Historic Site, 20 rooms with West Indian charm; Main House & Bridgehouse connect by a Strand St. bridge. www. clubcomanche.com Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort & Casino, an all inclusive, adult-only (18+) experience on the East End. Redesigned rooms & hillside suites, 2 fresh water pools, tennis, fitness center, restaurants, non-motorized watersports. www.diviresorts.com

Hotel on the Cay is located on a lush, 5-acre cay (pronounced key). Featuring 50 rooms and an enjoyable beach bar, it has a long history of intrigue dating back to the 17th century when pirates anchored their ships off shore! www. thehotelonthecay.com The King Christian Hotel is on the Christiansted waterfront with 72 fully remodeled rooms. The history and charm of the Danish West Indies comes alive with architecture, duty-free shopping, dining and historical sites steps from our door.

Take the water taxi across the harbor to Cay Beach! www.kingschristianhotel.com

Februar y / March 2024 • 49

Staying Here

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Discovery Grove

208-340-1246

Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort & Casino

340-773-9700

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Feather Leaf Inn

344-474-1358

Frederiksted Hotel

340-643-4939

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Grapetree Bay Hotel & Villas

340-249-0700

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Holger Danske Hotel

340-773-3600

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Hotel on the Cay

340-773-2035

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Mt. Victory Camp Eco Lodge

340-201-7983

Northside Valley

340-772-0558

Sand Castle on the Beach

340-772-1205

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Tamarind Reet Resort & Marina

340-718-4455

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The Buccaneer Beach and Golf Resort

340-712-2100

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The Fred

1-844-789-8784

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The King Christian Hotel

340-773-6330

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The Palms at Pelican Cove

340-718-8920

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The Sugar Apple Bed & Breaktast

754-300-6983

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The Waves Cane Bay

340-718-1815

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Victoria House

340-692-8888

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A Historic Caribbean Retreat on the Christiansted Boardwalk

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Whirlpool

340-772-0495

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Cottages By The Sea

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340-773-1377

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Tennis

Company House Hotel

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340-773-0210

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Club Comanche / Hotel St. Croix

Pets Allowed

340-227-9853

Non-Smoking

Caribbean Breeze Apartments & Vacation Homes

Internet

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340-773-0687

Golf

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Caravelle Hotel & Casino

Kitchen / Patio / Deck

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Fitness Center

340-772 1684

Carambola Beach Resort

Kid Facilities

Arawak Bay: The Inn at Salt River

Casino

PHONE

A/C

Easy Hotel Guide

Beach

BE OUR GUEST!

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E X P E R I E N C E T H E C H A R M O F F R E DE R I K S T E D

Historic Danish parsonage • Gated courtyard & pool Walking distance to beach & attractions ALL NEW STUDIOS & 1 BEDROOMS

1200 King Cross Street Christiansted Boardwalk

holgerdan@aol.com www.holgerhotel.com Nates Boathouse Restaurant

1-(877)- HOLGERD • (340) 773 - 3600 50 • Februar y / March 2024

340-773-0210 www.clubcomanche.com

Prince Street, Frederiksted (340) 227-9853 https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/2989620

Getting Around

BOOK WITH A SENSE OF ADVENTURE!

DRIVE LEFT Whether renting a car or crossing the street, it is vital to remember that traffic in the USVI flows from the left side of the road!

St. Croix has two towns, Christiansted at the center on the Northshore and Frederiksted at the West End, connected by the Melvin H. Evans highway. The Caribbean Sea, surrounding the island, is always there guiding you along roads that wind the coast.

Car rental agencies offer Jeeps, SUVs, vans, sedans, and trucks. They come with a full tank of gas and should be returned full! The driver and front seat passenger are required by law to use seat belts.

There are two parking lots in Christiansted, both with fees. One is the NPS lot next to the Fort, open from 8am-5pm, M-F. The other, on the corner of Strand and King Cross Streets, has extended hours. Check our Maps for more details, Pages 54-58.

EPIDEL Taxi Service & Tours

Amador Delerme • 340-643-0205 amadordelerme2015@gmail.com stxepidelvi@gmail.com

QE4

ISLAND FERRY

Icy AC

ST. CROIX | ST. THOMAS EVERY DAY EXCEPT TUESDAY Departs STX for STT 8am Departs STT for STX 3pm BOOK ONLINE QE4FERRY.COM

Point Udall.

Ted Davis

LOWEST Rates Cars, Jeeps, SUVs, Vans!

Seasonal Specials!

Low Rates Friendly Service JEEPS CARS SUVs VANS Free Vehicle Delivery to many Hotels!

Car Rental Car Rental Car Rental Car Rental Car Rental

Consistently Voted Best Car Rental

Reservations budgetstcroix.com or Call 340.713.9289 • Toll Free 888.264.8894 • Airport 340.778.9636 • Christiansted by Seaplane 340.713.9289 • Cruise Ship Passengers call for reservations 340.713.9289

Renter must be 25 or older (ages 23-24 an underage driver fee applies), have valid driver's license & major credit card. An independent Budget Systems Licensee.

Februar y / March 2024 • 51

Getting TAXI SERVICES

Epidel Taxi & Tours.......................... 340-643-0205 Believe It Taxi Service....................... 340-690-3774 St. Croix Taxi Association, Airport:. 340-778-1088

Sample Taxi Rates

OLYMPIC—ACE Rent A Car

50 on St. St.Croix!

Croix!

47Years Years on Experience Olympic’s Friendliness! www.olympicstcroix.com

• CARS: Wranglers, 4WD, Soft Top, w/AC, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Versa, Focus, Toyota Yaris, Minivans, SUV’s •Unlimited Mileage - Low Rates • Most Credit Cards Honored • FREE pickup & return to most locations. We meet all flights at anytime.

340-718-3000 • 1103 Richmond Conveniently located 1 minute away from the seaplane at the entrance to Christiansted.

rent@olympicstcroix.com Call us direct: 888-USVI-CAR (888-878-4227) or fax: (340) 718-9000 No other discounts apply.

Restrictions may apply.

10% DISCOUNT

with this coupon presented at the time of rental on direct reservations only. Valid April 15 - December 1.

52 • Februar y / March 2024

1 2 or More, FROM AIRPORT TO: Person each pay Buccaneer Hotel...................................$30......($15) Cane Bay................................................$30......($15) Carambola Beach Resort...................$30......($15) Christiansted.........................................$25.....($15) Club St. Croix........................................$25.....($15) Colony Cove.........................................$25......($15) Coakley Bay Condos..........................$40......($20) Divi Carina Bay Resort......................$50......($25) Frederiksted..........................................$20......($10) Grapetree Bay Hotel............................$50......($25) Green Cay Marina..............................$40......($20) Hospital..................................................$20.....($10) La Grande Princesse...........................$25......($15) La Vallee................................................$30......($15) Lorraine Village...................................$20......($10) Morning Star .......................................$25......($15) Queens Quarter...................................$25......($15) Sand Castle on the Beach..................$20......($10) Sunny Isle area.....................................$20......($10)

TAXI INFORMATION

■ Christiansted Taxi Stands are on King Street near Government House and in Frederiksted near Ft. Frederik.

CONFIRM THE RATE BEFORE GETTING IN A TAXI AS TAXIS ARE NOT METERED ON ST. CROIX. RATES MUST BE POSTED IN THE TAXI.

■ These taxi rates to and from the Airport and

Towns were obtained from the Taxi Commission and have been approved by the VI Legislature.

Look for only licensed taxis which carry a dome light and the letters TP on their license plate.

■ Luggage—A flat rate of $2. Per bag is added for

each passenger. The rate for items larger than 30” x 29” will not exceed $4.

■ Questions or Complaints—Call the VI Taxi

Cab Commission at 340-773-1561, M-F, 8am-noon, 1-5pm. www.tcc@vi.gov

Around

Drive left.

Ted Davis

Paradise Found Now with non-stop service from San Juan to St. Croix enjoy fast flights and easy connections to the most beautiful island destinations in the Caribbean.

capeair.com | 800-CAPE-AIR Februar y / March 2024 • 53

On-the-Go Destinations!

FIND IT HERE—TRAVERSE 84 SQUARE MILES

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ELEVATIONS 1000' - 1200' 800' - 1000' 600' - 800' 400' - 600' 200' - 400' Sea Level - 200'

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Condos 1. Club St. Croix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 2. Coakley Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M-1 3. Colony Cove. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 4. Mill Harbour. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 5. The Reef . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 6. St. C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-1 7. Schooner Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-2 8. Sugar Beach St. Croix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 Local Farmstands 1. ARTfarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-4 2. La Reine Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-3 3. Ridge to Reef (VISFI). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2 4. Sejah Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-3 5. Southgate Corner Farmer’s Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 Eat & Drink 1. Beach Side Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 2. Chef Ozzie’s Kitchen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 3. Duggan’s Reef. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 4. East End Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O-2 5. El Flamboyant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 6. Flamboyant Grill @ Carambola Beach Resort. . . . . . . . D-1 7. Goat Soup & Whiskey. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . L-2 8. La Reine Chicken Shack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-2 9. Leatherback Brewing Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4

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Buying/Living Here 1. Armery Industries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 2. Cruzan Gardens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-2

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Beaches Buck Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M-0 Cane Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1 Colombus Landing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-1 Cramer Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O-1 Dorsch Beach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-4 Rainbow Beach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3 Reef Beach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 Sandy Point. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5 Shoy Beach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 St. Croix East End Marine Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M-1

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6 / Post Offices Banks 1. Banco Popular ATM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2, H-3 2. Bank of St. Croix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 3. First Bank ATM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2, H-3 4. Kings Hill Post Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-3 5. Oriental Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 6. Richmaond Post Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2

H 7 Salt River Bay Nationa

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Airlines 1. Cape Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-4 2. Fly The Whale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-4

54 • Februar y / March 2024

ad

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Saman Restaurant @ Carambola Beach Resort . . . . . . D-1 Sion Farm Distillery (MUTINY Island Vodka). . . . . . . . . . H-3 Sea Terrace Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O-2 The Far East Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O-2 The Landing Beach Bar at Cane Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1 Stop & Shop Supermarket. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1 The Market STX. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-4 The Mermaid at The Buccaneer Beach and Golf Resort .K-2 The Sausage Shack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . L-1 The Terrace at The Buccaneer Beach and Golf Resort . K-2

Getting Around 1. Budget Car Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 2. Centerline Car Rentals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 3. Olympic - Ace Rent-A-Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 Hotels 1. Arawak Bay: The Inn at Salt River. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-1 2. Carambola Beach Resort. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1 3. Chenay Bay Beach Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . L-1 4. Cottages By the Sea. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 5. Discovery Grove. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-1 6. Divi Carina Beach Resort and Casino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-2 7. Grapetree Bay Hotel & Villas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-2 8. Hotel on the Cay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-2 9. Mt. Victory Camp Eco Lodge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2 10. Northside Valley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

St. Croix Road Map FIND IT HERE—SCENIC ROUTES

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East End Marine Park Management Zones

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St. Croix Dive Sites

A series of dive site descriptions.

9. Rust-op-Twist – Named after the plantation on shore. Lots of nice coral, tons of Black Durgans. Remains of upwelling pipes from a shrimp farm that Texas AM had in the 1970's.

10. The Pinnacle – This is a small sea mount that starts in 90 feet of

water. Many times Reef Sharks are seen here as well as larger fish such as Grouper and Snapper.

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© Cartographers, LTD. 2024

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BUCK ISLAND REEF NATIONAL MONUMENT

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No Take Zone – Protects near shore environments including mangroves, sea grass beds, lagoonal patch reefs, and linear reefs.

OPERATING A PERSONAL WATERCRAFT IS PROHIBITED. ALL FISHING AND EXTRACTION IS PROHIBITED. Recreational Zone – Allows snorkeling, diving, boating, and recreational shoreline fishing. Catch-and-release guide fishing, and cast-net bait fishing are allowed with a Marine Park Permit. ALL OTHER TRADITIONAL FISHING IS PROHIBITED (including but not limited to: fish traps; spear fishing; collection of lobster, conch whelk).

Wildlife Preserve Zone – Protects nesting female sea turtles using beaches in East End, Issac, Jack and Boiler Bays to lay eggs.

Brought to you by Dive Experience, Christiansted boardwalk.

Sand Castle On the Beach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 Tamarind Reef Resort & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 The Buccaneer Beach and Golf Resort. . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 The Palms at Pelican Cove. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-1 The Waves Cane Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1

Other Interests 1. Captain Morgan Distillery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 2. Caribbean Community Theater (CCT). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 3. Cruzan Rum Distillery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-4 4. East End Marine Park Visitor Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . L-3 5. Estate Whim Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-4 6. Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital & Medical Center. . . . . . . . . H-2 7. Island Center for the Performing Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-2 8. Hams Bluff Lighthouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1 9. Men’s Coalition of the VI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 10. Point Udall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P-1 11. Randall “Doc” James Racetrack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 12. Salt River National Historic Park & Ecological Preserve. G-0 13. St. Croix Animal Welfare Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 14. St. Croix Seashell Society. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-4 15. St. Croix Yacht Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 16. Sunny Isle Shopping Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 17. St. George Village Botanical Garden. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-4 18. University of the Virgin Islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-3 19. VI Waste Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3

Shop Duty Free 1. Plaza Extra East. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 2. Sweet Lime Furnishings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-3 3. The Hunt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-1 Sports 1. Buccaneer Golf / Tennis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 2. Buck Island Charters, Teroro II & Dragonfly. . . . . . . . . . K-1 3. Carambola Golf Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-2 4. Carambola Zip Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-2 5. Down South Charters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 6. Llewellyn’s Charter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 7. Mermaid Adventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4, G-1 8. Sea Thru Kayaks VI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-1 9. St Croix Surf and SUP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-4 10. Sweet Bottom Dive Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1 11. The Reef Golf Course. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 12. Virgin Kayak Tours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-0 13. West End Water Sports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3 Be Well!

1. Beaston Hill Health & Fitness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 2. Mt Welcome Pharmacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2

PETER’S REST CONVENIENCE CENTER Drop off Residential Household Waste, Green Waste, Bulk Waste, Scrap Metal, White Goods, and Household Hazardous Waste. Open Mon – Sat, 6am – 7pm, Sun, 6am – 2pm. Holidays, check website. Located on Rt. #62 between Rt. #68 and Rt. #70. Blue #18 on map.

Operated by the Virgin Islands Waste Management Association. www.viwma.org | 340-712-4962.

Februar y / March 2024 • 55

Q

Get Around Like a Local!

FIND IT HERE! EXPLORE HISTORIC CHRISTIANSTED. 5

Protestant Cay

Christiansted Harbor

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Banks & Post Offices 1. Bank of St. Croix ATM 2. First Bank ATM 3. Post Office, Company Street 4. Post Office, Gallows Bay Buying/Living Here 1. RE/MAX St. Croix 2. Sea Glass Properties Eat & Drink 1. Artisan Craft Distillery Co. 2. Breakers Roar Tiki Bar 3. BREWSTX 4. Cream & Co. 5. Cruzian Bayou Bistro 6. El Leon 7. Luncheria 8. Maria’s Cantina 9. Nates Boathouse 56 • Februar y / March 2024

10. Seaside Market & Deli 11. Shupe’s on the Boardwalk 12. The Courtyard Juices & Fitness Center 13. Velvet Haze Lounge 14. VI Food Tours 15. Virgin Island Coffee Roasters 16. Z Cafe Getting Around 1. Budget St. Croix Car Rentals 2. Centerline Car Rentals 3. Seaborne Seaplane Ramp 4. Sweeny’s Safari Tours Local Art 1. Cane Roots Art Gallery 2. Christa’s Art Gallery 3. Henle Fine Art 4. Maufe Gallery 5. Mitchell-Larsen Studio

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6. The Seven Flags Museum Other Interests 1. Alanon Meetings 2. Anglican Church 3. Catholic Church 4. Christian “Shan” Hendricks Farmer’s Market 5. Florence Williams Public Library 6. Lutheran Church 7. Moravian Church 8. National Park Service (NPS Headquarters) 9. Public Restrooms Shop Duty Free 1. Asha World Designs 2. Baci Duty Free 3. Belle Sorelle Beauty Bar 4. Bougainvillia & 41 King

5.

6.

7.

8.

Caledonia Wellness Chaney Chicks & Island Gifts Crucian Gold Cultured Naturals Body Care & Home Scents 9. Enso Indigo Home 10. FantaSea Jewelry at Henle Fine Art 11. Hotheads 12. ib designs 13. Joyia Inspirational Jewelry 14. KNG Clothing & Accessories 15. Oceanique Creations 16. Purple Papaya 17. RJS Handmade Designs 18. Small Wonder 19. SONYA’S Fine Island Jewelry 20. Sublime STX 21. Trends!

22. Undercover Books & Gifts 23. UNIQUE by Maria Banwaree

Christiansted Map

FIND IT HERE! CONNECT WITH OUR CULTURE & HISTORY.

CHRISTIANSTED WALKING TOUR Let’s start a leisurely walking tour of Christiansted at the site of the Old Scale House 1 on the harborfront, known as the Wharf. This is one of a complex of five buildings comprising the Christiansted National Historic Site, established in 1952, administered by the National Park Service. The Welcome Center and Park Store is newly reopened here from 10am to 4pm, 7 days a week (closed from Noon-1pm for lunch). Site brochures are available along with books, maps and souvenirs.

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Fort Christiansvaern 3 was the first public building to be started by the Danes after the island was purchased from France in 1733. It is built of Danish yellow brick and was completed in 1749 and later expanded. Its present appearance reflects the 1830’s period. It is open Monday through Friday from 8:30am – 4:30pm. The adjacent Fort Parking Lot is open from 8am – 5pm and hours are strictly enforced. There is a daily $10.00 parking lot usage fee collected by an automated cashless machine at the entrance, accepting only debit and credit cards.

The Steeple Building 4 across Hospital Street, formerly the Lutheran Church, dates from 1753. This site, on the Walking Tour, is currently closed for renovation.

Across Company Street lies the onetime Danish West India & Guinea Company Warehouse, 5 built in 1749 as a storage facility for hundreds of barrels of sugar and rum. In its courtyard, slave auctions were formerly held.

Originally, Government House 6 on King Street, was built as a home for a Danish merchant. That section dates from 1749; another section, the previous town house of a wealthy Danish plantation owner, was joined to it in 1826, together becoming the seat of the Danish West Indies government. The grand staircase and portico were added in 1830, as was the impressive ballroom/reception hall on the second floor by Governor General Peter von Scholten, who had his office and official residence here. Due to COVID-19 restrictions tours of the site have temporarily been suspended.

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Nearby, The Old Customs House 2 with its sweeping staircase, on the grassy area next to the Fort, was completed in 1830. It now holds National Park Service offices.

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The Lord God of Sabaoth Lutheran Church 7 across Queen Cross Street on King Street was originally the Dutch Reformed Church, built in the 1740’s and transferred to the Lutherans in 1831, who brought the furnishings here from the Steeple Building. Later, the steeple was added.

Across on Company Street is the historic Lutheran Parish Hall, and in the courtyard the former Pastor’s residence.

CHRISTIANSTED

Walking up Queen Cross Street to Company Street takes you to Apothecary Hall 8 on the left corner. Opened in 1828 by Danish pharmacist Peder Eggers Bentzon, the town’s first pharmacy remained here until 1970.

Nearby on Company Street is the Old Market 9 , laid out in the original town plan from 1735 and still being used. The well dates from 1863. On this square you will also find the downtown Post Office.

Hotels 1. Carvelle Hotel & Casino 2. Club Comanche / Hotel St. Croix 3. Company House Hotel 4. Holger Danske Hotel 5. Hotel on the Cay 6. King Christian Hotel Be Well!

1. Mt Welcome Pharmacy 2. Pampered VI Watersports 1. Big Beard’s Adventure Tours 2. Dive Experience

Christiansted National Historic Site Established in 1952, Christiansted National Historic Site was the first unit of the National Park Saystem in the US Virgin Islands. The park’s historic buidings and grounds commemorate the Danish heritage (1733-1917) of the town of Christiansted, St. Croix, which was named in honor of the reigning King of Denmark and Norway, Christian VI. In the 1700s, Christiansted was part of a mercantile system that linked Europe,West Africa, and the Caribbean in the infamous “Triangular Trade.”

Christiansted was the first town in the Lesser Antilles to be built on the grid system and to have a building code. Its distinctive colonial architecture reflects the town’s status as capital of the Danish West Indies (1755-1871); the great wealth generated by the export of cane sugar, molasses, and rum; and the influence of government building inspectors.

Februar y // March • 57 June July 20142024 • Page

Frederiksted Map

FIND IT HERE! DISCOVER THE WEST END.

Your tour of Frederiksted begins at Fort Frederik 1 by the cruise ship pier and waterfront park. Construction on the Fort began in 1752 and was completed in 1760. Featuring a museum with several permanent exhibits, and an art gallery, it is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 am to 4 pm. Admission $5., children under 12 free.

A public beach with showers and bathrooms is next to Fort Frederik.

Governor General Peter von Scholten proclaimed the emancipation of the enslaved population in the Danish West Indies on July 3, 1848, from adjacent Buddhoe Park 2 named for the renowned slave rebellion leader, a bust of whom is displayed there.

The Oscar E. Henry Customs House 3 was built in the 1800s. The Freedom Fountain 4, facing the pier, was installed for the Emancipation’s 150th Anniversary Celebration.

After severe damage during a labor insurrection in 1878, parts of the town were rebuilt in Victorian style. Victoria House 5 , on Strand Street, pre63 the Frederiksted architecture of that time. serves The Visitor’s Bureau 6 is located upstairs on Strand Street above the Frederiksted Mall and next door to the historic light blue building housing the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts 7 . Free admission to exhibits and gift shop.

Frederiksted is home to several historic churches, including St. Paul’s Episcopal Church ,8Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 9, Friedensberg Moravian Church 10, and St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church 11.

The handsomely restored Arthur Abel Complex 12 , formerly The Danish School (1799), is now the office of the Lieutenant Governor in Frederiksted at Hospital and Market Street. At Strand and Queen Cross Streets is the Athalie McFarlane Petersen Public Library 13 , built in 1803. Just behind it lies the Dorsch Theater 14, an open-air stage and event site. The Market Place 15 , is still in use today, as it was in 1751 at the founding of Frederiksted.

2 6 25 4 8 1

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To Creque Dam Rd.

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Mahogany Rd. La Grange Rd. 13

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Prince St.

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WEST END ATTRACTIONS 702

Tour an early Danish homestead, the Lawaetz Family Museum 1 at Estate Little 63Plantation ruins offer visitors a tranquil backdrop for La Grange on Mahogany Road. peace and contemplation at the Mt. Washington Labyrinth 2 , 2 miles north of Frederiksted. Open every day, year-round. The entrance gate is to the left when you reach the property and parking lot. The Whim Museum 3 , on Centerline Road, is the site of a former sugar cane plantation and temporarily closed. The Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands 4 also on Centerline, showcases on 16 acres of ruins of a former sugar plantation 1500 native & exotic species. Award-winning Ridge2Reef Farm 5 , on Creque Dam Road, is a USDA Certified Organic Farm with produce, tours, and workshops.

The Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge 6 is .5 mile beyond the west end of the Melvin H. Evans highway. See St. Croix Map, Pg 54 for location.

East St.

S trand St.

Hill St 1

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Fisher

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Pier

1 on St.  2 Lago  9 3  1 4 3 10 St. 3 4 5 Custom House 11  2 Market St. ATM 15 1  12 10 5  2   6 1 ATM 9  7 2  ATM .

King St.

ed Frederikst

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FREDERIKSTED WALKING TOUR

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Frederiksted Dive Sites

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Butler Bay Armageddon Rainbow Reef Frederiksted Pier Swirling Reef of Death

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Vetera nʼs Sh or

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Go to www.divexp.com for all island dive sites!

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Locations East of Frederiksted on Queen Mary Highway (Route 70)

Estate Whim Museum • St. George Village Botanical Garden 3

4 © Cartographers, LTD. 2024

58 • Februar y / March 2024

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Eat & Drink 1. Beach Side Café 2. Cibone Fine Seafood 3. Tap Deck Bistro & Bar Other Interests 1. Albert Edwards Fish Market 2. American Legion Hall 3. Dorsch Theater 4. Emile Henderson, Sr. Fire Station 5. Ft. Frederik Beach Bathhouse 6. Frederiksted Community Boating & Sailing Assoc.

7. Frederiksted Health Care 8. Hams Bluff Lighthouse (north of Frederiksted) 9. Legislature of the Virgin Islands 10. Our Town Frederiksted 11. Paul E. Joseph Stadium

70

12. Police Bike Patrol Unit 13. Public Restrooms 14. St. Croix Country Club Shop Duty Free 1. Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Sports 1. Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism 2. Cruzan Cowgirls 3. Lyric Sails 4. Mermaid Adventures 5. Nep2une Scuba Diving 6. West End Water Sports Hotels 1. Caribbean Breeze Apartments & Vacation Homes 2. Cottages By the Sea 3. Frederiksted Hotel 4. Mt. Victory Camp Eco Lodge 5. Sand Castle on the Beach 6. The Fred Hotel

The National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP) Invites Save Whim Museum Advocacy Group to Apply for 11 Most Endangered Historic Places in America List.

by Michael Connors, Ph.D.

F

1855 steam engine.

Sugar processing animal mill.

or the past three years St. Croix’s Save Whim Museum advocacy group, with more than 200 subscribers, has spearheaded a campaign to raise public awareness of the ruinous state and about the imminent threat to Frederiksted’s Estate Whim Museum. ST. CROIX THIS WEEK published four submitted articles presenting disturbing information about the present leadership of the organization entrusted with the stewardship of the museum, the St. Croix Landmarks Society, highlighting their dereliction of duty resulting in the museum’s demolition by neglect.

by supporting tourism-related activities, creating jobs, and fostering sustainable development.

Since 1988 the National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP) has nominated and published an annual list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places to raise awareness about the threats facing some of our nation’s greatest treasures. The list, which has identified more than 350 sites to date, has been so successful in galvanizing preservation efforts that less than 5% of the chosen sites have been lost.

The museum’s important library housed vital genealogical records, rare books, antique maps, and historical documents, which provided a valuable resource for academics and researchers interested in Caribbean history. These irreplicable sources contributed to the broader understanding of St. Croix’s and the region’s past and its impact on contemporary issues.

St. Croix’s Save Whim Museum advocacy group has been invited by the National Trust for Historic Preservation to submit a formal application for nomination of Estate Whim Museum to be listed on 2024s list of 11 Most Endangered Historic Places in America. The nomination form required extensive research and information about Estate Whim Museum’s history, current situation and threats, and most important, the potential solutions.

The St. Croix Landmarks Society has operated Estate Whim Museum for 75 years but for more than a decade SCLS’s current leadership has been responsible for the organization’s ineffective management.

Estate Whim Museum is unquestionably an important historical site and must be saved for a multitude of reasons. It serves as a tangible link to the historical and cultural heritage of St. Croix and the broader Caribbean region. Estate Whim’s history, from its origins as a plantation worked by enslaved individuals to its transformation into a museum, reflects the vast complexities of the past. For the local community, Estate Whim has been a source of identity and pride. It embodied the resilience and contributions of those who lived, worked and died on the estate, shaping the local narrative and fostering a sense of belonging among current residents. The museum also played a crucial role in educating the island community, students and visitors, about the island’s history, the legacy of enslavement, and the cultural evolution of St. Croix. It served as a living classroom, providing insights into the social, economic, and political dynamics that have shaped our U.S. Virgin Islands.

The structures on the museum’s grounds, including sugar processing mills, enslaved laborers’ quarters, and a great house, represent architectural and engineering achievements of their time. The museum’s cut-coral and limestone masonry and wooden-crafted roofs, built by 18th century enslaved African masons and woodworkers are unique testaments to the ancestral craftsmanship to be honored and preserved. Windmill and Preserving these structures is vital for copper pot still. understanding the historical context and ensuring that future generations can learn the full-story from the past.

North side, 18th c. great house with moat.

Estate Whim Museum is the U.S. Virgin Islands’ first museum and, with newly elected more qualified leadership, and the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s support and nomination to the 11 Most Endangered List, the museum would not only gain international recognition, but also guidance and resources to explore innovative solutions for longterm viability of the site to once again solidify its place among the Caribbean’s few “full-story” sugar estate museums.

After an initial meeting in December with one of NTHP’s Senior Directors for Preservation, the consensus is that the owner of Estate Whim Museum, the U.S. Virgin Islands Government, must take the initiative to see that the stewardship of this significant property is qualified and competent to manage museum operations. This would include being transparent with membership and the public. After all, it is the people of the Virgin Islands that actually own the property, and it is imperative that those entrusted with its care produce clear and concise financial reports, hold annual meetings, board of trustees’ nominations and elections and, in short, follow the organization’s bylaws. This would gain back public trust and make Whim Museum eligible for a multi-million-dollar Community Services Block Grant, additional FEMA funding, American Rescue Plan Act, and Virgin Islands Emergency Stimulus funding. Additionally, it could include comprehensive private and public partnership capital campaigns, eliminating having to request VI Government bailouts.

Save Whim Museum Advocacy Group | SaveWhim@gmail.com 1933 Scottish pot still.

The museum attracts a cross-section of local Crucians, transplants from the U.S. and Europe, winter visitors and tourists interested in Caribbean history and culture. The preservation efforts would contribute to the local economy Februar y / March 2024 • 59

Be Well!

CINDY MALE @ THE COURTYARD BOOK SIGNING & YOGA RETREAT

TAKE A WELLNESS JOURNEY! knee pain as well as follow up and wellness services. The Fitness Center features weight floor, cardio studio, outdoor boxing area, CrossFit area, battle ropes, 25-meter pool, steam room, and stretching areas, plus group fitness classes to help you reach your body goals. Aesthetic beauty and nonsurgical body slimming treatments including massage, eyelash extensions, facials, laser hair removal, laser lipo, cellulite treatments, personal training, and weight loss coaching is also available by appointment. Let your transformation begin! beestonhealth.com

The Courtyard Juice & Fitness Center. Dozens of weekly classes!

Beeston Hill Health & Wellness – 340-778-8888 Beeston Hill is a comprehensive athletic and medical facility, with chiropractic care, physical therapy, and rehabilitation services as well as a Café, a fully equipped gym, pool, and fitness complex under one roof! We offer a full-service chiropractic care clinic and physical therapy center to treat back, shoulder, neck, and

Mt. Welcome Pharmacy – 340-719-7283 Co-founded by Pharmacist Steve Eckstein in 2007, on East End Road, there’s now a 2nd location on Northside Road at the Princesse Health Center, to better serve the community.

Pharmacists Amber Harhen, Joe Cherkis and Marlee Risen are also on board to serve you.

They specialize in Medication Therapy, Health & Beauty, Personal Care, Diabetic & LongTerm Care Supplies, & Medical Equipment.

Prescriptions from other pharmacies can be filled here. Download the Mobile App & refill them online. East End Road open Mon-Fri, 8:30am-6pm, Sat, 9am-4pm, Sun, 9am-2pm.

C

indy Male is an artist/ educator/yogini who uses art and yoga to encourage the recognition, growth, and synthesis of creative energy for conscious living. She holds degrees in Interior Design, Special Education, Art Education, Creativity Development and Fibers from West Virginia University, Vermont College, Savannah College of Design, and studied in Cortona, Italy with UGA. She is a certified Kundalini Yoga teacher, Levels 1 and all five units of Levels 2.

Her thirty-two year teaching career on St. Croix began at The School of the Arts in 1980. She taught Special Education at Arthur Richards and Art Education at The Good Hope School, Country Day School, and Manor School. Later, she taught Art History, Art for Educators, and Fibers at the University of South Carolina. Cindy began practicing yoga in 1970 and taught at community gyms and school, at her private studio and for the US Marine Corp. Currently, she holds Kundalini yoga classes in Savannah, GA.

Facials Massage--Body BodyScrubs Scrubs Facials -- Massage Eyelash Extensions&&More!

More!

Eyelash Extensions

340-773-7728 340-773-7728 Tuesday -- Saturday Saturday Tuesday am -- 66 pm pm 10 am

dayspa spa&& day lashlounge lounge lash

www.pamperedvi.com www.pamperedvi.com Kalima Kalima Center, Center,King KingStreet, Street, across across from from Government GovernmentHouse House

Don at io n bas ed co mmu ni ty c las s fo r t h o s e p r ac t ic i n g s obriet y

INFO@YAG FO U N DAT IO N | 3 40.332 .91 15

juices & fitness center

Yoga - Barre - Smoothies Juice - Breakfast - Lunch Monday - Saturday, 8 am - 6 pm

340-773-7728 O n e h ou r y o g a f l ow foll ow ed by a b ri ef sh ar in g c irc le an d g rou p med itatio n

60 • Februar y / March 2024

www.thecourtyardstx.com

Kalima Center, King Street, across from Government House

Using breath, yoga, art, and meditation, Cindy’s new book guides us toward becoming creators of a more authentic community. It leads us to create a life with less fragmentation and a more visionary spirit. Using art and yoga in self-directed learning, Course For Correction: A Guided Journey to Find Your Creative Potential addresses the need to re-purpose our motivations, in life as in art, so that our beliefs and convictions do not mimic the instabilities in our world.

Her annual YoGa Retreat at The Courtyard Juices & Fitness Center, King Street, Christiansted, runs February 9-17. This year it will focus on the ‘Study of the Sutras.’

Each of the seven days will focus on one particular Patanjali sutra. Patañjali, in the second century BC synthesized and organized knowledge about yoga from much older traditions and compiled them into four chapters regarding the eight limbs of yoga. Cindy will focus on certain Verses in each Chapter. Pranayama, kriya, and meditation will be used to dissect the sutras and embody its meaning. Call or email to sign up and pay by the class or take the entire workshop with a local discount!

More info in the Events Calendar, Pg 4-5

clmale@yahoo.com | cindymale.com cindymaleartandyoga.com | 340-277-8651

Be Well!

BOOK SOME SELF-CARE!

Northside Road open Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm, Sat, 8am-1pm. mtwelcomerx@gmail.com, www. mtwelcomepharmacy.com.

Pampered VI – 340-773-7728 Tucked in Christiansted on King St at the Kalmia Center, we’re a boutique spa offering exceptional personal services & aim to create an unforgettable client experience! Let us show you what sets us apart! Luscious lashes, flawless skin, relaxing massage—we’ve got you covered! Arrive early to enjoy our beautiful showers & infrared sauna. Next door is The Courtyard Juices & Fitness Center for healthy, locally-sourced drinks, smoothies, and veggie fare. Pamper yourself or have a Pamper Party with us! Mobile Services & Group packages.

Book online for a full list of offerings. www. pamperedvi.com, FB.

Scan for 12-Step Meeting Schedule

Beeston Hill Health & Wellness. Get fit and have fun doing it!

2 Locations East End Road, Gallows Bay (340) 719-7283 Mon -Fri 8:30am-6pm Sat 9am-4pm • Sun 9am-2pm

Princesse Health Center, Northshore Rd

(340) 719-7979 Mon -Fri 8am-5pm • Sat 8am-1pm ✔ Medication Therapy ✔ Health & Beauty ✔ Personal Care ✔ Diabetic Supplies ✔ Long-Term Care

Supplies

✔ Medical Equipment

Fast & friendly prescription service Stateside transfers/ Most major insurance plans Download Mobile App to Refill Prescriptions on our website!

www.mtwelcomerx.com Februar y / March 2024 • 61

Buying/Living Here SET THE STAGE FOR ISLAND LIFE!

Investing in Paradise— Buying & Owning a Condo in the Caribbean

By Sanni Craft, Managing Broker Sea Glass Properties

D Sea Glass Properties. MLS 23-1969. 43 Villa Madeleine Condominium, Teagues Bay.

Armrey Industries, Inc. – 340-718-8314 Based on St. Croix, Armrey has been the Virgin Islands’ #1 supplier of Cabinets and Countertops since 1961. Armrey specializes in custom hardwood and PVC cabinets; laminate, quartz, and granite countertops; and more for your kitchen, bathroom, office and other spaces. Armrey’s custom work can be seen in countless residential homes and commercial spaces to include: both territory airports, multiple government agencies including the Legislature, hundreds of housing community units, the UVI Medical Simulation Center, JFL Hospital, Diageo, schools, and more!

To learn more, visit our website. To schedule a design consultation and site measurement, call us or stop by our showroom in Estate Richmond, across from WTJX, between Charles Harwood and the

VOTED BEST

ON ST. CROIX #5 Company St. Christiansted (340) 773.1048

Ava Gail Bourdon Broker-Owner

Meet our Agents on page 2 62 • Februar y / March 2024

reaming of owning a piece of paradise while generating passive income?

Look no further than investing in a condo on beautiful St. Croix! Beyond being an amazing escape, a Caribbean condo presents a unique opportunity to own an income-producing asset that combines both financial returns and personal enjoyment.

Here's why purchasing a condo is a savvy investment choice.

One of the most enticing aspects of a rental property is the prospect of having a steady income stream. Many investors are drawn to the vacation rental market, leveraging the region's year-round appeal to tourists seeking sun, the beautiful Caribbean Sea, and serenity. By renting out your property when you're not using it, you can turn it into a consistent source of income. The demand for vacation rentals in the US Virgin Islands ensures a steady flow of guests, making it an attractive option for those looking to offset the costs of ownership.

Beyond the financial benefits, owning a condo in the Caribbean provides a lifestyle investment. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing against the shore and enjoying your morning coffee with a panoramic view of turquoise waters. It's not just a property; it's a lifestyle that promises relaxation, adventure, and cultural richness.

St. Croix offers two beautiful and historic towns with incredible restaurants, custom jewelry stores, and galleries. The white sandy beaches, great snorkeling and world class diving also attract lots of visitors. It’s a wonderful place to live and vacation and owning an income producing property, is a great way for you to invest and come enjoy this beautiful island! Give us a call and we will send you a list of available properties and answer any questions you may have.

Sea Glass Properties | 56 King Street Seaglassproperties.com | 340.715.7772

Buying/Living Here CHANGE COURSE, MAKE YOUR MOVE! We have the reputation for putting you, the client, first and placing your needs and goals at the top the list. Thinking Real Estate?... Think RE/MAX St. Croix. View a list of our real estate professionals on Page 2 and connect with us today. info@ livingonscroix.com, www.livingonstcroix.com Sea Glass Properties – 340-715-7772 We are the fastest-growing real estate company in the Virgin Islands wirth Sanni Craft, Managing Broker- (340) 626-0737! At Sea Glass Properties we strive to provide you with the best service possible! We will assist you from the start of your search, for the perfect property, to the end. If you are new to St. Croix, our agents will navigate and get you familiar with the island.

Whether buying or selling, we are committed and dedicated to serving you. Please contact us for any questions you may have. We look forward to working with you. www.seaglassproperties.com

RE/MAX St. Croix. MLS 23-1203. Estate Rust Op Twist. US National Registry of Historic Places. 5 acres, main house, 2-br cottage.

Armrey Industries. Revamp your home this Spring!

Over 500 style and material combinations for kitchens, bathrooms, and offices. Armrey.com

Post Office. www.ARMREY.com, 3016 Richmond Ste 1, Christiansted, VI 00820.

Cruzan Gardens – 340-778-0700 Plant lovers delight! Serving St. Croix for over 60 years, this tropical nursery has the largest selection of plants and plant supplies on island.

Whether it’s one plant or landscaping an entire estate, our professional staff can provide solutions, answer your questions and build out your project successfully. We stock an assortment of growing supplies, beautiful planters, organic fertilizers, organic pesticides and organic seeds. Looking for large palms? Check out our palm field! Need specific plants or planters, we can special order for you. Check out all our services at www.cruzangardens.com and make Cruzan Gardens your first stop for anything plants! We are located on Midland Road (Hwy 72) in Estate Calquohoun.

Nursery and air-conditioned store open TuesdayFriday 9am-5pm and Saturdays, 9am-1pm.

Cruzan Gardens. Ask us about Vetiver for soil stabilization, erosion control or bioremediation.

RE/MAX St. Croix – 340-773-1048 RE/MAX, a name you can trust Globally and Locally for over four decades. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, your success hinges upon the expert advice and services provided by your real estate agent. RE/MAX St. Croix, is a full-service real estate brokerage. Our real estate professionals are committed to providing our clients with personal service based on experience, knowledge and skills. We are always excited to show off our island’s real estate market, customs, and culture.

Februar y / March 2024 • 63

DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE ISLAND GETAWAY A retreat for all ages, Carambola Beach Resort offers a restorative escape and endless possibilities for discovery above and below the waves.

FOR RESERVATIONS, CALL 340.778.3800

Scan QR code to BOOK your Caribbean Escape

While St. Croix is the must-see island for the history buff, we are not only about the days of old. We are also known for our gorgeous beaches, world-class activities, fine dining, resorts, casinos and golf courses.

Plus, our unique take on arts, crafts, music, festivals and cultural events lets you discover exactly why St. Croix is a vibe like no other.

VISITUSVI.COM